Sodium TestingThe sodium test measures the concentration of sodium in the blood. The regulation of sodium and potassium levels in the body is a complex and tightly controlled process that involves several hormones, including aldosterone and vitamin D, as well as other factors like magnesium, vasopressin (also known as antidiuretic hormone or ADH), and vasopressinase. Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Its primary function is to regulate sodium and potassium levels. When sodium levels are low in the blood, the body releases aldosterone, which acts on the kidneys to reabsorb sodium from the urine back into the bloodstream. Simultaneously, aldosterone increases the excretion of potassium in the urine. Vasopressin regulates water balance and reabsorption from the kidneys and indirectly influences sodium levels. Vasopressinase is an enzyme produced by the placenta during pregnancy. It breaks down vasopressin in the bloodstream, affecting water balance and blood volume and indirectly impacting sodium levels. Sodium in PregnancySodium levels change throughout pregnancy due to increases in vasopressin and aldosterone. At the same time, as the placenta matures, it produces vasopressinase, an enzyme that degrades vasopressin. It is normal for serum sodium levels to decrease by 4 to 5 mmol/L during pregnancy. This drop begins at conception and peaks between 8 and 12 weeks gestation. Sodium levels increase slightly in the later third trimester. An average serum sodium level of 135 mmol/L is a normal presentation in pregnancy. There are significant increases in plasma potassium and sodium concentrations in the first six weeks postpartum when plasma chloride concentration falls. High Sodium in PregnancyHigh sodium in pregnancy is a marker of kidney function. Most Common Causes of High Sodium in Pregnancy
Low Sodium in PregnancyHyponatremia is the most encountered electrolyte abnormality in pregnancy. A 2021 literature review found low sodium (<130 mmol/L) associated with a significant rate of preeclampsia complications: acute kidney injury in 34.1%, HELLP syndrome in 17.1%, fetal growth restriction in 36.4%, stillbirth in 2.3%, use of magnesium sulfate in 44.2%, and postpartum maternal admission to an intensive care unit in 28.7%. Sodium levels <130 mmol/L in pregnancy are associated with increased birth complications. Most Common Causes of Low Sodium in Pregnancy
Want to continue learning?Discover how to master lab analysis with my pregnancy-focused course. MEAC Credits Available Now Copyright © 2024 Functional Maternity, all rights reserved. Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is intended for licensed medical professionals. It is based on current research, subject to change, and not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any medical condition. This information does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare provider. Seek professional medical evaluation and treatment from a licensed provider. Use of this information is at your own risk.
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Hi There!I'm Sarah Thompson, the author of Functional Maternity, and the upcoming book Beyond Results - A practitioner's Handbook to Effective Functional Lab Analysis in Pregnancy. Lab Tests
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