Final answer:
The incidence of carpal tunnel syndrome in pregnancy is increased due to fluid retention and swelling, hormonal changes that soften ligaments, weight gain, and increased blood volume, all of which can lead to compression of the median nerve in the wrist.
Step-by-step explanation:
The incidence of carpal tunnel syndrome is increased in pregnancy because of physiological changes that lead to fluid retention and swelling. As a woman progresses through her pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, there is a significant physiological change in her body. The increased fluid retention can cause swelling in the extremities, and when it occurs in the wrist, it can compress the median nerve within the carpal tunnel. This compression leads to the symptoms associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
Pregnant women may also experience increased levels of relaxation and other hormones, such as estrogen, that can contribute to swelling and lead to softening of the ligaments and the carpal tunnel structure. Additionally, weight gain during pregnancy can put more pressure on the median nerve. It should be noted that conditions causing inflammation and increased blood volume may also add to the risk of developing carpal tunnel syndrome during pregnancy.