A normal, healthy heart is well-equipped to manage the changes that occur in pregnancy. It rises to the occasion – pumping more blood to the uterus, increasing heart rate as needed.
During pregnancy, any activity that increases heart rate does carry more of an impact than it would regularly. Still, it’s completely healthy for women to pursue active lifestyles during those nine months. Take note of any abnormal symptoms, and talk to your OB/GYN if you’re aware of any existing heart conditions.
Peripartum cardiomyopathy, also known as postpartum cardiomyopathy, is an example of a heart condition that develops due to pregnancy. It’s quite rare, but here at Catholic Health, we believe the more informed patients are, the more confident you will be having important conversations with your doctor.
One reason this condition can be so alarming is that its symptoms are not incredibly telling. Onset so late in pregnancy is difficult due to the fact that signs may masquerade as normal pregnancy side effects. These include:
Women who experience peripartum cardiomyopathy do not efficiently pump blood to their vital organs. The goal in a cardiologist’s treatment plan is to avoid the buildup of extra fluid in the lungs.
The decision to birth additional children should be guided by the patient’s cardiologist and OB/GYN. If heart function does not return to normal, additional pregnancies are not recommended, as this may cause further heart damage.
Even with a full recovery, there’s still a risk that this will recur in ensuing pregnancies. However, additional pregnancies may possibly be attempted with close monitoring of the heart.
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