Pregnancy in women with congenital heart disease

Curr Cardiol Rep. 2005 Jul;7(4):305-9. doi: 10.1007/s11886-005-0053-z.

Abstract

Congenital heart disease is the most common form of structural heart disease affecting women of childbearing age in developed countries. Pregnancy in these patients is associated with an increased risk to both mother and fetus. Appropriate prepregnancy evaluation and counseling is recommended to assess the pregnancy-related maternal and fetal risk and to identify patients who should avoid pregnancy. Once pregnancy occurs, cardiovascular reevaluation is generally recommended; the frequency is individualized. Monitoring during delivery may be necessary and the postpartum period is a concern in select individuals. Data regarding the outcome of pregnancy in patients with operated congenital cardiac defects are available. Individualized care is mandatory.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Counseling
  • Female
  • Heart Defects, Congenital / complications*
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications, Cardiovascular / therapy*
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Pregnancy, High-Risk