Heart Health Matters During Pregnancy

Pregnancy puts extra stress on the heart. In most women, the body handles it well. But for some, it can lead to serious problems. Especially if there’s a history of heart issues.

At BaleDoneen, we check for pregnancy-related heart conditions before, during, and after pregnancy. Our goal is to keep both mom and baby safe.

Why the Heart Works Harder in Pregnancy

During pregnancy, blood volume increases. The heart has to pump harder. Heart rate goes up. This is normal. But for some women, it can cause or uncover heart problems.

This is where heart disease in pregnancy becomes a risk. Some women may already have congenital heart disease. Others may develop issues like preeclampsia, high blood pressure, or cardiomyopathy.

Learn here about: Baledoneen Method!

Common Heart Problems During Pregnancy

Pregnancy-related heart conditions we watch for include:

  • Pregnancy-related hypertension
  • Preeclampsia and heart health issues
  • Pregnancy and arrhythmias
  • Pregnancy and cardiomyopathy
  • Heart palpitations during pregnancy
  • Gestational cardiovascular conditions

Even mild symptoms should be checked early.

Pregnancy-Related Heart Conditions

Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Call your doctor right away if you notice:

  • Chest pain
  • Fast or skipping heartbeat

  • Trouble breathing while lying down

  • Sudden swelling in hands or face

  • Fainting or dizziness

  • Ongoing fatigue beyond normal pregnancy tiredness

These could be signs of heart problems during pregnancy, including pregnancy-related heart conditions. It’s important to speak up (even if you think it’s minor).

Screening for At-Risk Mothers

We provide maternal heart screening for patients with:

  • A family history of heart disease
  • Past pregnancy complications
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Autoimmune conditions
  • Known heart disease in pregnancy

Our screenings are based on standard heart disease in pregnancy guidelines and are designed to detect pregnancy-related heart conditions.

Also See: Hormones and Cardiovascular Health!

Treatment and Care

Treatment depends on the type of pregnancy-related heart conditions. We may:

  • Monitor blood pressure closely
  • Recommend rest and stress reduction

  • Adjust medications
  • Refer to a cardiologist or OB with heart experience
  • Plan safe delivery methods based on your risk level

Treatment of heart failure in pregnancy needs a careful, team-based approach. We work with OBs and heart specialists together.

What About Diagnosis?

Diagnosis of heart disease in pregnancy starts with a detailed review. We check:

  • Heart rate and rhythm
  • Blood pressure
  • Breathing patterns
  • Blood work and scans if needed

We balance safety for both mom and baby in every test and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are signs of heart problems during pregnancy?

What is the Rule of 5 in cardiac disease in pregnancy?

Can you develop heart problems during pregnancy?