What occurs to tidal volume during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the tidal volume actually increases due to several physiological adaptations that occur in a woman's body to support both the mother and the developing fetus. As the uterus expands, it pushes against the diaphragm, and hormonal changes also affect respiratory function, enhancing the efficiency of gas exchange.

This increase in tidal volume helps meet the greater oxygen demands as well as supporting the removal of carbon dioxide from the body. As a result, the increased tidal volume contributes to improved ventilation and allows for better oxygenation of both the mother and fetus throughout the pregnancy.

The options indicating "no change," "decrease," and "inconsequential to physiological changes" do not accurately reflect the significant impacts pregnancy has on respiratory physiology. Given the changes in body dynamics and increased metabolic demands, the correct response recognizes the importance of the tidal volume increase in the context of pregnancy.