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Heart Disease In Pregnancy

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Appointment

60 minutes

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4.9
Rated 4.9 out of 5
4.7
Rated 4.7 out of 5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

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Turnaround: Varies

Appointment: 60 minutes

4.9
Rated 4.9 out of 5
4.7
Rated 4.7 out of 5
Care Quality Commission
Primary Care & Diagnostics Finalist Award

Cardiovascular Changes During Pregnancy

Pregnancy causes a number of profound changes to the body’s cardiovascular function, and in some cases, these changes can affect the health of both the mother and the baby. This is especially true if you have an existing cardiovascular condition before becoming pregnant.

Therefore, heart disease during pregnancy requires vigilant care and management. However, with the right approach, both mother and baby can remain healthy and well. If you have heart disease and are planning to become pregnant or are already expecting, we are here to support you every step of the way

Doctor considering blood test options

Heart Palpitations During Pregnancy

Heart palpitations are the sensation of a fast-beating, fluttering, or pounding heart, often felt in the chest, throat, or neck. During pregnancy, several factors can contribute to palpitations.

Hormonal changes cause fluctuations in hormones that can disrupt the heart’s rhythm. The body also produces more blood to support the growing fetus, which can put additional strain on the heart and lead to palpitations. As the heart works harder to pump blood throughout the body and the placenta, an increased heart rate can occur.

Additionally, the stress and anxiety often associated with pregnancy can trigger palpitations. High caffeine intake or other stimulants may further increase the likelihood of experiencing these sensations.

Symptoms To Watch For

Pregnant women with heart disease should be aware of symptoms that might indicate a problem:

  • Chest Pain: Any unusual pain or pressure in the chest.
  • Swelling: Unexplained swelling of the legs, feet, or hands.
  • Severe Fatigue: Extreme tiredness that is not typical for you.
  • Irregular Heartbeat: Unusual heart rhythms or palpitations.
  • Shortness Of Breath: Difficulty breathing, especially with exertion.
Woman doctor smiling
Serious doctor with arms crossed

Managing Heart Disease During Pregnancy

Regular check-ups with your cardiologist and obstetrician are essential to monitor both your heart condition and your baby’s health. Discuss any heart medications with your healthcare provider to ensure they are safe during pregnancy.

Maintain a healthy diet, limit salt intake, stay hydrated, and follow your doctor’s advice on light exercise. Your healthcare team will also assist in planning the safest delivery method, which might include a caesarean section if necessary to avoid complications.

Statistics​

men & one in 14 women die from coronary heart disease
0 in 8
of adults have high blood pressure in UK
0 %
of hypertension is untreated
0 %
people are affected by cardiovascular disease in UK
0 M

Types Of Heart Disease in Pregnancy

Heart disease during pregnancy can be classified into pre-existing and pregnancy-related conditions, namely:

Pre-existing Heart Conditions:

  • Congenital Heart Disease: Conditions present from birth, such as ventricular septal defects or atrial septal defects.
  • Acquired Heart Disease: Includes conditions like coronary artery disease, heart valve disorders, and cardiomyopathy.

Pregnancy-Related Heart Conditions:

  • Gestational Hypertension: High blood pressure that develops during pregnancy.
  • Preeclampsia: A serious condition characterised by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organs.
  • Peripartum Cardiomyopathy: A rare form of heart failure that occurs during the last month of pregnancy or within five months after delivery.

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The Procedure

preparing for appointment

Pre-Appointment

Gather details about your medical history, including any previous heart conditions or pregnancies with complications. Prepare a list of all medications and supplements you are taking, including prenatal vitamins. Note any symptoms, such as palpitations, chest pain, or shortness of breath, that you have been experiencing. Depending on the type of heart exam (e.g., echocardiogram), you may need to fast or avoid certain foods.

during the appointment

Appointment

The exam may involve a physical assessment, echocardiogram, or electrocardiogram (ECG). During the exam, you might need to lie down or assume various positions for different parts of the procedure. The process should be painless, though you might experience slight discomfort with certain procedures. The healthcare provider may monitor your heart rate and rhythm and take note of any changes that could affect your pregnancy.

post appointment

Post-Appointment

Your healthcare provider may provide preliminary results or discuss any findings immediately after the exam. You might need to schedule a follow-up appointment to review detailed results or to discuss any further testing that may be required. Based on the results, your provider may recommend changes to your diet, exercise routine, or medication. If you are prescribed medication or supplements, be sure to follow the instructions carefully.

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testimonials​

All reviews
4.8
Google
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4.8
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5.0
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5.0
Yell
Yell
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ExcellentTrustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 54.8451 reviews
4.8Trustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 5
Excellent451 reviews
ExcellentGoogle star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 54.8443 reviews
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Excellent443 reviews
ExcellentTrustindex star 1Trustindex star 2Trustindex star 3Trustindex star 4Trustindex star 55.01 reviews
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Excellent1 reviews
ExcellentProvenexpert star 1Provenexpert star 2Provenexpert star 3Provenexpert star 4Provenexpert star 55.01 reviews
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Excellent6 reviews
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Jooyoung Nam profile picture
Jooyoung Nam
10 September 2026
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I had a very positive experience at this clinic for my blood test and the follow-up with the GP. I particularly appreciated the care and attention throughout the process, including the follow-up after my results. Thank you to the team for making the experience so reassuring. I would happily recommend this clinic.
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Lucy Cropper
31 August 2026
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I had a fantastic experience at the Harley Street clinic. Staff were very welcoming and professional and booked my second blood test here also.
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Truman Packard
19 August 2026
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The service was efficient, personable and very complete. The doctor who saw me was very good, patient and sensitive. I’ll be going back.
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Sue Heald
11 August 2026
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As an international visitor, I was very grateful for the prompt attention to my request for an appointment. Dr Ali was respectful and empathetic in regard to my condition and suggested further treatment, which I was able to organise for the next day. Both offices I attended treated me appropriately and I would recommend Harley Street Health Walk-in Clinics to anyone visiting London who requires medical attention.
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Isabella Johnson
3 August 2026
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Highly recommend City Walk-In Clinic Really pleased with my experience at City Walk-In Clinic. I booked a female hormone test because I wanted some answers about a few symptoms I'd been having, and the whole process was straightforward. The staff were welcoming, friendly and didn't make me feel rushed at all. The blood test was quick, and they explained everything clearly before taking the sample. My results came back sooner than I expected, and it was reassuring to have everything presented in a way that was easy to understand. I'd definitely use the clinic again and would recommend it to anyone looking for a private female hormone test. Professional service, lovely staff and an all round positive experience.
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Anabella Styles
9 July 2026
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I had a private gp appointment yesterday as my feet have been swelling every day over the past few days. So I booked an appointment with Dr Heather. Dr Heather explained the possible causes of the swelling, including the heat that we are currently experiencing in London. Recommended further investigation if the swelling persists, to identify the underlying issue rather than just making assumptions.
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Mary Anne
3 July 2026
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I have used City Walk In Clinic as my go to place for routine blood tests. My recent full health check gave my doctor some clues that i may be approaching my menopause era. So my doctor has recommended that i do some tests to find out if indeed i am entering perimenopause, as the symptoms are there. Will be having my tests in the next few weeks. So glad i had a full health check, because all these symptoms were driving me crazy.
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Dona P
24 June 2026
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Really good service throughout. Reception staff were welcoming and the blood test was efficient and quick. Highly recommended as blood tests can be booked on the day with results being sent very quickly.
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A B
23 June 2026
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Great location for blood tests if you want very fast results! I got my results the same day, highly recommend!
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Grace Vizcaino
2 June 2026
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Very good service at a very reasonable cost. Same day results, I do recommend this clinic and would certainly be using it again.
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Shona McGovern
16 May 2026
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I attended The Harley Street Walk/in centre in the City recently. I was able to book my appointment the day before for a blood test at a time that suited me. The booking process was straightforward. The doctor that conducted the venous draw was efficient and very pleasant. I have never had such a painless venous draw and I have had many! My appointment was at 5pm and I had my results before 8 am the following day. I will be very happy to book my tests here in the future. Thank you.
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Monju Zaman
19 April 2026
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Very easy to arrange the appointment with plenty of immediate availability. Very convenient location. Friendly medical associate who took my blood and results arrived very promptly, ie early the next day. Seamless experience.
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Nat N profile picture
Nat N
17 April 2026
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Attentive, welcoming and professional staff in a great area which is easy to get to! I always feel like I'm in good hands
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Abdalla Mohamud Mohamed
18 March 2026
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I had a very good experience at the clinic. The staff were punctual friendly and professional. I had a blood test done and received the results quickly on the same day. I would definitely recommend visiting them.
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Ena Quinn profile picture
Ena Quinn
9 March 2026
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Speedy and efficient place for quick bloods. Results have been same day for me. Very friendly staff too which is always a bonus
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Arthur Attwell profile picture
Arthur Attwell
22 January 2026
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Great experience. I was visiting London from abroad and I needed a blood test before travelling onward. I arrived without an appointment and was done in 20 minutes. The staff were all lovely. I received my test results by email the next morning.
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Omar
19 January 2026
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Really professional and friendly. They always provide their results quickly!
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Antigoni S.
17 January 2026
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Very good experience — all the staff were very polite, I was assisted immediately, and the results were available the same day. Thank you very much Private City Clinic!
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Sheila Daley profile picture
Sheila Daley
31 December 2025
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I wanted a cholesterol check up and chose this clinic because it seemed to offer a competitive price for a detailed report. And so it turned out to be. Received a prompt and professional service at a price that was significantly less than other nearby providers in central London. I have now used it twice and would definitely recommend.
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JenniferP-344
18 February 2025
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I appreciated the discreet and professional care during my sexual health test. The clinic made me feel safe and respected, and the results were delivered quickly and privately. Definitely recommend if you value confidentiality.
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MichelleD-11
21 February 2024
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I can't express enough how pleased I am with the Private Walk-in Clinic. As someone who values privacy and comfort, this clinic hits all the marks. The waiting areas are designed for relaxation, and the staff ensures confidentiality at every step.
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Anonymously
4 December 2023
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The Walk-In Clinic in central London exceeded my expectations in every way. Their attention to detail and commitment to tailored care for their patients truly sets them apart. The availability of evening appointments until 6:30 pm was a game-changer for someone like me juggling multiple commitments.
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LunaW23
14 May 2021
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They are so fast. One call and I am there in a few hours, always the same team and so polite and nice.
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JuliaSf
14 October 2020
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I hope these guys open up again soon because I really cannot stand anyone else around here. they were perfect for me for tests and consultations whenever I needed them
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Emily-M
2 August 2019
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i have used these guys many times in the last 6 years and its always very fast and professional. most tests are done in 24hours and they call you to explain the results. recommended if you gp (like mine) gives you an appointment in 4 weeks time.

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fAQ

Does pregnancy affect cardiovascular health?
Yes, all women will experience significant cardiovascular changes in the first trimester of their pregnancy. These changes will be more noticeable if you had an existing condition prior to becoming pregnant.
What are the most common pregnancy-related cardiology issues?
Shortness of breath (dyspnea), orthopnea, swollen ankles (oedema) and palpitations are all common signs that women notice during pregnancy; they are all related to how the cardiovascular output is affected.
I have an existing cardiac condition but I would like to get pregnant. Is it safe?
An experienced specialist can evaluate you prior to becoming pregnant and advise you on the safest way to proceed to support optimal health for you and your baby. Make an appointment to speak to one of our specialists who can support you through the process.
Which heart conditions are most concerning in pregnancy?
Conditions like congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy, valvular heart disease, pulmonary hypertension, and arrhythmias carry significant maternal and fetal risk.

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