Cardiovascular Health During Pregnancy

Overview

Blood volume, heart rate and cardiac output increase during pregnancy. Mild breathlessness or awareness of the heartbeat may occur, but pre-existing valve disease, congenital heart disease, pulmonary hypertension, cardiomyopathy or important arrhythmia requires individual planning.

Chest pain, fainting, breathlessness at rest, blue discolouration or rapidly increasing swelling should not wait for a routine appointment.

All cardiac medicines should be reviewed for pregnancy and breastfeeding. Do not start or stop treatment without professional advice.