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Updated: May 27, 2026
06:55
Assessment of Maternal Vascular Remodeling During Pregnancy in the Mouse Uterus
Published on: December 5, 2015
Maternal valvular heart disease in pregnancy
Hilary A Roeder1, Jeffrey A Kuller, Piers C A Barker
1Department of Reproductive Medicine, Division of Perinatology, University of California San Diego, San Diego, CA 92103, USA. haroeder@ucsd.edu
Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey
|November 18, 2011
Summary
Pregnancy significantly alters maternal physiology, potentially worsening valvular heart disease. Comprehensive, multidisciplinary management is crucial for pregnant patients with cardiac conditions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Obstetrics
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Valvular heart disease is a common complication during pregnancy.
- Physiological changes in pregnancy, including increased cardiac output and blood volume, can exacerbate existing cardiac conditions or unmask silent ones.
- Rheumatic fever is a primary cause of acquired valvular lesions, particularly in immigrant populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiology of valvular heart disease in pregnancy.
- To outline cardiovascular changes during gestation.
- To discuss the pathophysiology and management principles for valvular lesions in pregnant patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on valvular heart disease in pregnancy.
- Analysis of physiological adaptations during pregnancy.
- Discussion of management strategies for common valvular conditions.
Main Results:
- Common valvular conditions include mitral and aortic stenosis and regurgitation.
- Prosthetic valves require careful consideration of anticoagulation risks and benefits for mother and fetus.
- Effective management necessitates a multidisciplinary approach involving various medical specialists.
Conclusions:
- Valvular heart disease poses significant risks during pregnancy.
- A coordinated, preconception to postpartum management plan is essential.
- Optimal outcomes depend on collaboration between maternal-fetal medicine specialists, obstetricians, cardiologists, and anesthesiologists.
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