In this article:
- Gestational hypertension: High blood pressure that develops during pregnancy
- Preeclampsia and eclampsia: Pregnancy complications involving high blood pressure and organ damage
- Cardiomyopathy: A disease of the heart muscle
- Heart valve disorders: Issues with the valves that regulate blood flow through the heart
- Arrhythmias: Abnormal heart rhythms
Who Is at a Higher Risk?
While heart issues can affect anyone during pregnancy, certain factors increase your risk:- Age 40 or above
- Being overweight or having obesity
- Pre-existing heart conditions
- Diabetes or high blood pressure
- Anaemia or sleep disorders
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- Smoking, alcohol, or drug use
- Lack of physical activity
- Family history of heart disease
How Pregnancy-Related Heart Issues Can Show Up
Some symptoms might feel like regular pregnancy discomfort, but they could signal a serious heart problem. Be extra cautious if you notice:- Extreme fatigue that doesn't improve with rest
- Swelling in hands, face, or legs that's sudden or severe
- Persistent headaches
- Dizziness or fainting spells
- Shortness of breath, especially at rest
- Chest pain or pressure
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Unexplained weight gain
Steps You Can Take Before Pregnancy
Being proactive about your heart health before conceiving can make a real difference:- It’s a good idea to check your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Start a routine of light-to-moderate exercise
- Eat a balanced, home-cooked diet
- Avoid smoking and alcohol
- Manage stress with techniques like yoga or guided breathing
- Sleep for at least 7 to 8 hours a night
Managing Heart Health During Pregnancy
Here’s how to support your heart while you’re expecting:Attend every antenatal appointment, as they help track changes in blood pressure and weight
Inform your doctor about medications or supplements you’re currently taking, and discuss your family history of heart conditions
- Eat low-sodium, nutrient-rich foods
- Keep moving with safe pregnancy workouts like walking or prenatal yoga
- Stay hydrated and avoid caffeine
- Learn about the warning signs of preeclampsia
Postpartum: The Silent Risk Period
Most people feel that once the baby is born, the risks are over, but this isn't always true. Heart-related problems can develop or worsen in the first year after delivery, especially if:- You had preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, or gestational diabetes
- Your pregnancy was considered high-risk
- You had abnormal heart function during pregnancy
What to Ask Your Doctor
Open communication with your doctor can protect both your heart and your baby. Ask:- Do my blood pressure and sugar levels look okay?
- Am I at risk of heart-related complications during or after pregnancy?
- How will this affect my birthing plan?
- Can any tests help me better understand my risk?
- What emergency symptoms should I watch out for?
- How will my current pregnancy affect future ones?
How This Affects Your Future Health
Issues like preeclampsia or gestational diabetes don’t just go away after delivery. They increase your long-term risk for:- Chronic hypertension
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
Taking care of your heart during and after pregnancy is one of the most important steps you can take for your overall well-being. The changes your body goes through may feel overwhelming, but understanding the risks and recognising early warning signs can help you stay safe. Whether you are planning to conceive, currently pregnant, or in the postpartum stage, prioritising your heart health can lead to better outcomes not just now, but for the rest of your life. Always reach out to a healthcare professional if something feels off. Your body is speaking to you, trust it, and seek the care you deserve.
FAQs on Why You Should Prioritise Heart Health During and After Pregnancy
- Can pregnancy cause heart problems even if I’ve never had any before?
Yes. Pregnancy can unmask hidden heart conditions or trigger new issues due to the increased strain on your cardiovascular system. - Are pregnancy-related heart problems rare?
Not at all. Heart-related issues are one of the leading causes of pregnancy-related deaths globally and in India too. - I had preeclampsia. Should I worry about my heart in the future?
Yes. Preeclampsia increases your risk of high blood pressure and heart disease later in life. Regular heart check-ups are important. - Can I exercise if I’ve had a heart-related complication during pregnancy?
Only under your doctor’s supervision. Light physical activity may be beneficial, but strenuous exercise can be harmful in some cases. - Is it safe to get pregnant again after a heart complication in the first pregnancy?
It depends on the type and severity of the issue. Your doctor will give you the right advice by looking at your medical background and heart condition.