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Updated: Aug 17, 2026

Analysis of Congenital Heart Defects in Mouse Embryos Using Qualitative and Quantitative Histological Methods
Published on: March 10, 2020
Pregnancy in women with congenital heart disease
1Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA. connolly.heidi@mayo.edu
Abstract:
Congenital heart disease is the most common form of structural heart disease affecting women of childbearing age in developed countries. Pregnancy in these patients is associated with an increased risk to both mother and fetus. Appropriate prepregnancy evaluation and counseling is recommended to assess the pregnancy-related maternal and fetal risk and to identify patients who should avoid pregnancy. Once pregnancy occurs, cardiovascular reevaluation is generally recommended; the frequency is individualized. Monitoring during delivery may be necessary and the postpartum period is a concern in select individuals. Data regarding the outcome of pregnancy in patients with operated congenital cardiac defects are available. Individualized care is mandatory.
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