Let's Talk About Your Cardiovascular System During Pregnancy

With cardiovascular disease being the leading cause of maternal death, at-risk mothers must see a cardiologist either as part of a cardio-obstetric team or independently to keep mother and baby healthy.

Cardiovascular disease is the primary cause of pregnancy problems. Congenital heart disease is the most common heart condition affecting pregnancies in the United States, whereas cardiomyopathy causes the most serious problems.

The interventional cardiologists at Carolina Heart and Leg Center closely monitor patients at risk for cardiovascular issues during pregnancy. Our team uses cardiology expertise to support patients through pregnancy who have pre-existing cardiovascular conditions or a history of heart-related complications during pregnancy.

If you have a pre-existing heart condition, such as cardiomyopathy, arrhythmias, or congenital heart disease, your Carolina Heart and Leg Center provider provides special care to manage these conditions so you and your baby remain healthy throughout your pregnancy.

Here’s what to know about how pregnancy affects the cardiovascular system:

Increased blood volume

By the end of the second trimester, your blood volume will increase by about 50%. This surge is necessary to supply enough oxygen and nutrients to your baby and support the placenta. While this increase is essential, it also means your heart has to work harder to pump the additional blood, which can lead to a higher heart rate and increased cardiac output.

Changes in blood pressure

In the first and second trimesters, it’s common for blood pressure to drop slightly due to the relaxation of blood vessel walls, a result of hormonal changes. However, it typically returns to pre-pregnancy levels in the third trimester. We monitor your blood pressure closely because major deviations may signal a condition like preeclampsia, which needs prompt medical attention.

Heart rate and cardiac output

To accommodate the increased blood volume, your heart rate will rise, often by 10-20 beats per minute. This increase helps ensure that enough blood is circulating to meet the needs of both mother and baby. These changes are normal and necessary for a healthy pregnancy.

Vascular changes

Hormonal changes during pregnancy cause your blood vessels to relax and expand, which helps accommodate the increased blood flow. This vascular adjustment is vital for maintaining proper circulation to the placenta and baby. However, it can also lead to common pregnancy symptoms such as swelling in the legs and feet and varicose veins. Staying active, elevating your legs, and wearing compression stockings can help manage these symptoms.

Common cardiovascular concerns

While most cardiovascular changes during pregnancy are normal, some conditions require closer monitoring. For instance, gestational hypertension, which is high blood pressure that develops during pregnancy, can pose risks if not managed properly.

Preeclampsia, characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine, is another serious condition that can develop, typically after the 20th week of pregnancy. Regular prenatal checkups are crucial for early detection and management of these conditions.

Managing heart health during pregnancy

Many women with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions have healthy pregnancies without complications. Carolina Heart and Leg Center performs thorough reviews of each patient’s risks and creates an appropriate management plan, including closely monitoring existing heart conditions.

If you have concerns about your heart health during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our cardiology experts provide comprehensive care and support, ensuring you and your baby thrive. Click here to reach our Fayetteville, North Carolina, office for an appointment.