Heart disease in Pregnancy Treatment in Jaipur, Cardiac Pregnancy Disease Treatment

There are many physiological changes that take place in every system of body during pregnancy. If you have a pre-existing heart condition, you’ll need extra care during pregnancy.

Effects of Pregnancy on the heart?

During pregnancy, there is increase in total blood volume and heart rate to nourish your growing baby. The blood volume increases by 30 – 50%. During labor and delivery, there is an added stress to your heart. It takes almost six weeks for these changes to revert back to normal.

What are the risks during pregnancy?

The risks depend on the severity and nature of the heart disease. There might by issues in rate and rhythm, infection of the lining of the heart and heart valves (endocarditis) and congestive heart failure in severe cases.

What Pre-pregnancy counseling and planning is required?

Before planning a pregnancy with pre-existing heart disease, it is essential to schedule an appointment with a cardiologist and an obstetrician who specializes in high-risk pregnancies. They then evaluate if you are fit to conceive or not. There are certain heart diseases in which pregnancy is contraindicated. Pregnancy in these conditions should be discussed beforehand.

How can I make sure my baby is OK?

Your obstetrician will monitor your baby’s development throughout the pregnancy. There is slightly higher chance of any congenital heart disease in babies of mothers with heart disease. Routine ultrasounds will be used to track your baby’s growth, and to detect any fetal heart abnormalities.

How to prevent complications?

• Timely antenatal visits.
• Take your medication timely and as prescribed.
• Get plenty of rest and avoid stress.
• Avoid smoking, alcohol, caffeine and illegal drugs.

What are the warning signs and symptoms in pregnant mothers with heart disease?

You should contact your health care provider immediately if you have any of these signs or symptoms:

• Difficulty in breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Palpitations
• Chest pain
• Blood during coughing

Is it safe to breast-feed in heart disease?

Breast-feeding is absolutely safe and encouraged for most women who have heart conditions, even those who are on medication.