Handling Heart Problems During Pregnancy

As per statistics, nearly 4% of the world pregnancies have been complicated by heart/cardiovascular diseases. It is estimated that close to 10% of maternal deaths occur due to heart problems and it's complication.

However, what is more disturbing that a very few number of pregnant cardiovascular patients are aware of their condition and hence, the doctors are ignorant as well. Since they are not brought to the knowledge of the doctor thus, they are left untreated adding to the risk of complications.

But on the other hand, it is a misconception that a woman with heart problem should avoid pregnancy. Many women have successfully conceived and delivered healthy babies irrespective of the heart problems that they have during the pregnancy.

Pregnancy Problems To Look Out For

But, handling heart problems during pregnancy can only be managed if the condition is brought to the notice of the doctor and he is given time to take necessary precautions.

This is essential as the heart has to pump 40 times more blood during pregnancy in order to provide a healthy circulation for the child.

The blood vessels dilate in order to support such a heavy work load which in turn lowers your blood pressure and a possible reason for clotting of the blood. But this is a precaution that the body takes in order to protect the pregnant woman.

So again the question, how to handle heart problems during pregnancy? Here are some the tips that would help a person in handling heart problems during pregnancy.

STEP I: How to handle heart problems during the pregnancy?

Doctor's consultation
Under normal conditions the doctor would do the following tests to monitor the condition of the heart, followed by some mild medication that would not harm the baby’s growth.

1. Echo-cardiogram: Sound waves are used to produce an image of the heart.

2. Electrocardiogram: The test is used to monitoring heart’s electrical activity.

3. Medication: Regular medication is prescribed to control the heart conditions.

Under severe conditions he might suggest the following solutions for handling heart problems during pregnancy:

1. Percutaneous-therapy: The therapy uses radiations for testing and is avoided until there is no other alternative left.

2. Cardiopulmonary-bypass: The doctors’ by-pass the infected portions of the heart which suffer from the ailment to reduce excessive pressure on it.

STEP II : Precautions taken by you

1. Medication: Take regular and timely medication in order to maintain the health of the heart.

2. Rest: Adequate rest is essential in order to avoid excessive pressure on the heart.

3. Weight: Heart of over-weight or bulky people has to work harder to keep up with its job, hence it is essential that you monitor your weight gain during pregnancy and keep it to minimum.

4. Anxiety: Increased anxiety could mean increased risk of deterioration of the heart condition.

5. Irritants: Avoid habits that would harm the condition of the heart further such as smoking or drinking.

1. Plan the labour by getting the pain induced when your heart is at the best state.

2. C-section or vaginal delivery should be planned by consultation of the doctor.

3. Epidural and anaesthesia should be administered to avoid undue stress.

4. Post-partum care should be taken as advised by the doctor.