[Mitral stenosis and pregnancy (author's transl)]

Mitral stenosis represents a serious and frequent complication during pregnancy. Deterioration of mitral stenosis may occur as result of circulation's adaptation to pregnancy and endocarditic recidives. The same principles of therapy as practised in the non pregnant state are of importance during pregnancy. Because of the side effects of drug problems develop with the indication of anticoagulation. Reservation is necessary concerning surgical treatment. Especially open heart surgery should be avoided because of high fetal mortality. Interruption of pregnancy is justified in only rare cases.