Change in Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) in Pregnancy and Puerperium in the same Woman

Aims and Objective: Normal pregnancy involves many changes including alterations in hematologic parameters. Hematologic changes also involve change in Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) during pregnancy. Therefore in the present study, the change in erythrocyte sedimentation rate is studied in pregnancy and puerperium in the same woman.

Method: 30 pregnant women in the age group of 20 to 30 who are registered in KIMS, Hubli were enrolled for the study. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is measured in pregnancy and puerperium in the same women.

Results: Values were analyzed statistically using paired "t" test. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate is increased in pregnancy compared to puerperium (p <0.0001) which is statistically highly significant.

Conclusion: The increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate in pregnancy is due to increased plasma fibrinogen level and hemodilution during pregnancy.