In Australia, cardiac disease is now acknowledged as the leading cause of maternal death during pregnancy, comprising 14.3% of maternal mortality.1
Recognising the complex relationship between pregnancy and heart health is crucial to ensuring the health of both mother and child. While many with existing heart conditions have delivered healthy babies, there are important risks to consider. This Hope For Heart’s blog sheds light on the effects of pregnancy on the heart and the broader cardiovascular system, potential risks, necessary precautions, and steps to ensure a healthy pregnancy journey.
How does Pregnancy Affect the Heart?
Significant physiological changes occur throughout pregnancy, notably, increasing demands upon the heart and blood vessels through a substantial increase in blood volume and heart rate. As a result, many heart conditions pose increased risks during this period, including heart rhythm issues, valve problems, heart failure, and undiagnosed congenital heart defects.2
These unique changes highlight the interplay between the maternal body and the developing foetus. Each condition requires careful management and specialised care to mitigate potential complications and ensure the well-being of both the parent and the baby.
Management and Monitoring
The necessity to manage heart conditions while ensuring the safety of the developing foetus can be a complex balancing act.
Adherence to prescribed medications and clearly understanding their potential impacts is key. Additionally, continue to work closely with your health professionals to adjust dosages and determine the safest treatment options during this important period.
Adequate preparation before conception is also vital for those with a pre-existing heart condition. So, consulting with a cardiologist to understand necessary treatment adjustments and developing a plan to maintain overall well-being is advised if you have a known cardiac condition.
Scheduling routine check-ups and ordering tests specialised to the heart, such as electrocardiograms (ECG) and echocardiograms (Echo), enables medical experts to identify and treat any possible issues. A healthy pregnancy requires regular prenatal care and monitoring.3
Labour and Delivery
Individuals with heart conditions must take extra care and precautions throughout birth and delivery. Ensuring the well-being of the parent and the newborn during this crucial phase requires thorough monitoring, possible interventions, and meticulous postnatal care.
For those who have heart problems, the postpartum phase can also bring unique difficulties, such as the possibility of postpartum cardiomyopathy. To effectively manage a cardiac disease, postpartum comprehensive care and ongoing monitoring after birth are critical.4
Pregnancy and a pre-existing heart disease call for proactive planning, thorough medical supervision, and vigilant observation. Individuals can ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy, which will ultimately result in the birth of a healthy child, by taking the required precautions and collaborating closely with their medical team. It is crucial to approach this journey with the necessary support systems and personal knowledge to make informed decisions that may impact the mother, their family and child.
Disclaimer This information is general and not conclusive. Follow any guidelines and advice from your doctor or specialist, health care, or multidisciplinary team, for your personalised patient-centred needs and care. Inquire about a patient advocate group regarding your specific needs. Call 000 if you are experiencing chest pain.
To find a GP or a Cardiologist near you, visit www.hopeforhearts.com.au
Connect the Docs www.connectthedocs.com.au is a medical marketing agency specialising in therapy awareness campaigns, educating medical professionals and patients about common conditions.