Starling curve above the one on which the X is marked will result from an increase in contractility or a decrease in afterload.  The Starling curve below the one on which the X is marked will result from a decrease in contractility or an increase in afterload. A mild hemorrhage, which causes a decrease in blood volume and pressure, will evoke the baroreceptor reflex, which produces an increase in contractility. The low blood volume decreases the end-diastolic volume. Therefore, the stroke volume will be at the point marked A. An increase in afterload indicates that the new stroke volume will be on the lower curve. The increase in venous compliance results in a decrease in end-diastolic volume, and, therefore, the stroke volume will be at the point-marked E.