Management of Women With Acquired Cardiovascular Disease From Pre-Conception Through Pregnancy and Postpartum

Highlights

• Acquired forms of cardiovascular disease account for considerable morbidity and mortality among pregnant women.

• Interdisciplinary, team-based care is critical to managing complex acquired cardiovascular disease in pregnant women.

• Optimizing maternal outcomes in pregnant women with cardiovascular disease is crucial to promoting fetal health.

Abstract

Acquired cardiovascular conditions are a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. A growing number of pregnant women have acquired and heritable cardiovascular conditions and cardiovascular risk factors. As the average age of childbearing women increases, the prevalence of acute coronary syndromes, cardiomyopathy, and other cardiovascular complications in pregnancy are also expected to increase. This document, the third of a 5-part series, aims to provide practical guidance on the management of such conditions encompassing pre-conception through acute management and considerations for delivery.