Ureteral function in pregnant women

Obstructive Renal Failure and Pleural Effusion Caused by the Gravid Uterus

“…The dilatation of the ureters and renal pelves that develops has been attributed to the obstruction of the ureters by the pregnant uterus (9), or to hormonal imbalance producing ureteral atony and diminished ureteral peristalsis (13). Probably, the condition is the result of the combined effect of both these components (9,13). Characteristically, these changes are more common and more marked on the right side than on the left, with a ratio of 3:l (14).…”

Complicated hydronephrosis of pregnancy

“…Dilatation of the ureter and renal pelvis in pregnancy is a well-known phenomenon (3). It varies according to changes in the subject's posture (10). Some evidence suggests that the dilatation is caused by compression from the uterus at the pelvic brim.…”

Studies of Nocturia in Normal Pregnancy

“…We suggest that this change in bladder function is mainly responsible for failure of the nocturia to improve in the third trimester despite the reduction in overnight urine flow. Another factor which may influence the occurrence of nocturia relates to the effects of ureteric compression by the gravid uterus in the second and third trimesters (Baird, 1935;Harrow et al, 1964;Baird et al, 1966;Rubi and Sala, 1968). In some patients it is probable that effective bladder capacity is reduced by the volume of urine released from the dilated upper urinary outflow tract at night, this occurring when ureteric compression is relieved by the adoption of a lateral recumbent position.…”