4 General questions regarding heart disease in pregnant women & bull; hello healthy

1. Will the baby have similar problems if I have a heart defect?

Heart defects are the most common birth defects, and women born with heart defects are at increased risk of having babies with heart defects, says Stephanie Martin, D.O., medical director of the intensive care unit of childbirth and gynecology at the Children's Pavilion for Women Texas in Houston. If you have congenital heart disease, your baby's heart should be assessed in utero with a fetal echocardiogram, a noninvasive ultrasound by a specialist.

Prenatal diagnosis will help you understand how to fix the problem and avoid any complications during pregnancy or childbirth. The good news is, most conditions can be corrected after birth.

2. Should I have a Caesarean section because I have a heart defect?

Do not have to. There is a misconception with the general opinion and many doctors that a C-section is not only important, but also beneficial in patients with heart disease. In fact, this is simply not true. Most patients can give birth normally, and it is safer than a C-section. If the heart can tolerate the stress of pregnancy, it should also tolerate childbirth. If a woman cannot push during childbirth, the doctor can help to forcibly or vacuum the baby. Most women with heart disease can receive an injection of a local anesthetic in the spine if they wish.

3. Is it safe to take heart medication during pregnancy?

Most heart drugs are safe in pregnancy, except for ACE blockers and ACE receptor blockers, which are useful for treating high blood pressure, and the blood thinner Coumadin.

4. Will I be able to breastfeed?

Breastfeeding is recommended for most women with heart defects, even those who are taking medication. Discuss the customization of care you will need with your healthcare provider. Sometimes alternative medicine is suggested.

If you have a congenital heart problem that increases your risk of endocarditis drastically, your doctor may discuss the risk of mastitis while breastfeeding. This common infection can carry risks in this situation. Pumping and giving breast milk may be recommended in some circumstances.