Final answer:
During pregnancy, the respiratory changes include an increased tidal volume and a higher respiratory minute volume, adjustments made to fulfill the increased oxygen requirements of the fetus and the mother's heightened metabolism. Shortness of breath may occur due to the enlarged uterus pressing on the diaphragm.
Step-by-step explanation:
The respiratory changes during pregnancy include an increased tidal volume and an increased respiratory minute volume by 50 percent. This adjustment is necessary to meet the higher oxygen demands of the fetus and to cope with the maternal body’s increased metabolic rate. Due to the growing uterus exerting pressure on the diaphragm, the volume of each breath might decrease, which can lead to shortness of breath, or dyspnea. Nonetheless, the frequency of breathing might not necessarily decrease, and oxygen consumption definitely increases to support the metabolic needs of the mother and the developing fetus. Additionally, with the increased metabolic activity, there is an increase in carbon dioxide production as well.