Navigating Infertility and Cardiovascular Risk: Use of Assisted Reproductive Technologies in Women With Heart Disease

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Cardiology
• Maternal-Fetal Medicine

Background:

• Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is increasingly used globally for infertility.
• More women with cardiovascular disease (CVD) are seeking ART for pregnancy.
• Limited data exists on ART's impact on pregnancy outcomes in women with pre-existing CVD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current literature on ART use in women with CVD.
• To identify knowledge gaps and areas for future research.
• To guide cardiologists in managing CVD patients undergoing ART.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on ART and CVD in pregnancy.
• Synthesis of established knowledge and identification of research needs.

Main Results:

• The use of ART in women with CVD is growing.
• There is a significant lack of large-scale studies on ART's effects on pregnancy outcomes in this group.
• Specific risks and optimal management strategies are not well-defined.

Conclusions:

• There is an urgent need for more research into ART's impact on pregnancy outcomes for women with CVD.
• Developing evidence-based guidelines is essential for cardiologists and reproductive specialists.
• Improved understanding will enhance the care of this vulnerable patient population.