STUDIES ON SERUM LIPIDS DURING PREGNANCY AND PUERPERIUM

A significant elevation has been found in the serum levels of total, free, and esterified cholesterols, phosphatides, glycerides, and total lipids in 92 pregnant women as compared to normal levels. Maximum levels were found in the third trimester. The cholesterol to phosphatide ratio was constant at a value less than one. The serum lipid fractions rapidly decreased in the postpartum period. Mechanisms responsible for the elevated serum lipid levels are discussed. This physiologic hyperlipemia of pregnancy should not be a source of diagnostic errors. © 1969 Springer-Verlag.