Heart Disease in Pregnancy and Postpartum

Heart disease can be a very serious condition and is the leading cause of death for women in the United States. Women can develop heart disease in pregnancy and postpartum, which is why it is important to know the signs and symptoms, as well as the risk factors.

What are some warning signs of heart disease during and after pregnancy?

• faint or pass out

• feel unusually tired

• out of breath with little or no physical activity

• have heart palpitations

• have chest pains

• have severe swelling

Sometimes heart disease symptoms can feel like normal pregnancy symptoms. Talk with your ob-gyn if you have any of the warning signs. It’s important to share what you’re feeling, especially if something feels wrong.

How can you lower your risk of heart disease?

Depending on age and risk factors, adult women may need an annual cholesterol screening for cholesterol levels, as well as having blood pressure and weight measured regularly. If you are at risk, lifestyle changes usually are recommended first. If lifestyle changes alone are not enough, or you are at high risk, your doctor or other health care professional may suggest medications to treat high blood pressure or lower your cholesterol levels.

What if I have heart disease during pregnancy?

If you are diagnosed with heart disease while pregnant, you may need to see your ob-gyn earlier or more often during and after childbirth. You also should tell any future health care professionals that you had heart problems during pregnancy.

If you have any questions about this topic, be sure to bring them up with your doctor at your next appointment.