Managing Heart Health During Pregnancy: What Every Expecting Mother Should Know

 
Pregnancy is a transformative time, but it can place significant stress on a woman’s heart and circulatory system. While most pregnancies proceed smoothly, heart-related conditions, such as hypertension (high blood pressure), can pose grave risks to both mother and baby. Awareness of these risks and choosing the right healthcare provider can make a substantial difference in ensuring a safe pregnancy and delivery.

 

Heart Disease in Pregnancy

Heart disease covers a wide range of conditions, some of which are pre-existing, while others develop during pregnancy. Common heart-related issues during pregnancy include:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): This is one of the most common conditions, appearing as either chronic hypertension (pre-existing or before 20 weeks of pregnancy) or gestational hypertension (developing after 20 weeks). Without careful management, it can escalate into more severe conditions like preeclampsia.
• Preeclampsia: A serious condition that occurs after 20 weeks, preeclampsia can lead to life-threatening complications for both the mother and baby if untreated.
• Peripartum Cardiomyopathy: A rare condition where the heart weakens during the last month of pregnancy or postpartum, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood effectively, which can lead to serious complications

 

Risks to Mother and Baby

Heart disease during pregnancy, especially hypertension, can have several undesirable outcomes:

• For the mother: Increased risks of developing preeclampsia, stroke, and future cardiovascular disease. In more serious cases, complications can arise during delivery, which is why it is crucial to choose a healthcare provider equipped to handle any situation.
• For the baby: Preterm birth, low birth weight, and even stillbirth in extreme cases. High blood pressure reduces blood flow to the placenta, affecting the baby’s growth and development.

Choosing a hospital with advanced care capabilities, like Bumrungrad International, is critical for mitigating these risks. Bumrungrad’s experienced medical teams are well-positioned to handle high-risk pregnancies, including those complicated by heart disease, ensuring that both mother and baby receive the specialized attention they need.
 
 

Early Detection: The Key to Safety

Detecting heart disease early in pregnancy allows for timely intervention, which can significantly reduce the risk of complications. Early detection offers the following benefits:

1. Timely Interventions: If hypertension or heart conditions are identified early, appropriate treatments—such as medications, lifestyle adjustments, or interventions—can stabilize the condition.
2. Improved Outcomes: Continuous monitoring and early management can help prevent serious issues like preeclampsia or preterm delivery. Bumrungrad’s comprehensive prenatal care ensures that expecting mothers receive the personalized care they need, no matter the complexity of their condition.
3. Long-term Health: Managing heart health during pregnancy can reduce the risk of long-term cardiovascular issues.

 

Prevention and Healthy Pregnancy

While not all cases of heart disease can be prevented, there are ways to reduce your risk:

• Regular Prenatal Checkups: Attending all prenatal appointments is crucial for tracking your blood pressure and heart health. At Bumrungrad, expectant mothers benefit from state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and personalized care that monitor both mother and baby’s well-being.
• Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
• Exercise and Stress Management: Moderate exercise, such as walking or swimming, supports cardiovascular health. Managing stress through yoga, meditation, or relaxation techniques also contributes to better heart health.
• Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: These habits increase the risk of hypertension and other complications.

 
For those already dealing with pre-existing heart conditions or hypertension, working with Bumrungrad’s multidisciplinary team ensures access to leading medical expertise. Specialists across various fields collaborate to provide care plans that address all aspects of maternal and fetal health, keeping you and your baby safe throughout pregnancy.
 
 

Medications and Treatments

Some women may require medications to control high blood pressure during pregnancy. Bumrungrad’s experts carefully monitor and adjust medications to ensure both mother and baby remain safe, using treatments that are effective and pregnancy-safe.

In more severe cases, such as preeclampsia or peripartum cardiomyopathy, Bumrungrad’s medical team is prepared to provide intensive monitoring and specialized treatments, including advanced care in our Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) if necessary.
 
 
Pregnancy is a time of preparation and joy, but it’s also important to be aware of potential health risks. Early detection and proactive management are key to preventing complications and ensuring a safe pregnancy. Choosing a world-class hospital like Bumrungrad provides peace of mind, as its dedicated team of specialists is equipped to care for you, no matter how complex your pregnancy may be.
 
With state-of-the-art facilities, personalized care, and expertise in managing high-risk pregnancies, Bumrungrad is well-positioned to support expectant mothers every step of the way. Starting your journey to parenthood with Bumrungrad ensures a seamless and comprehensive approach to care, providing the reassurance that you are in the best hands. Whether you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, trust Bumrungrad’s collaborative, multidisciplinary team to deliver the highest standard of care tailored to your needs.
 
 
Provided by Dr. Manasawee Vassara