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Heart Disease In Pregnancy

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60 minutes

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Turnaround: Varies

Appointment: 60 minutes

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

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.
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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.

How To Book A Private Doctor Appointment?

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The Procedure

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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.

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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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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.

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