Heart Health During Pregnancy and Postpartum
Published Feb 19, 2025
Lindsay Ogle, M.D.
Missouri Metabolic Health
Pregnancy is an incredible journey that brings many changes to a woman’s body, including significant adjustments to the cardiovascular system. As a board-certified family medicine and obesity medicine physician, my passion is to help patients achieve and maintain optimal health. At my telehealth clinic, Missouri Metabolic Health, I focus on treating metabolic conditions such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes and obesity. One critical aspect of women’s health that often goes overlooked is heart health during pregnancy and postpartum.
How Pregnancy Affects the Cardiovascular System
Pregnancy can be thought of as a natural stress test for the heart. During this time, the cardiovascular system undergoes several adaptations to support the developing fetus.
- Increased Blood Volume: A 30%-50% rise in blood circulation helps meet the baby’s needs and protects against blood loss during delivery.
- Higher Heart Rate: The heart beats 10-20 times more per minute to improve blood flow.
- Lower Blood Pressure: Blood vessels dilate to facilitate circulation with less resistance.
- Enhanced Clotting Ability: The body prepares to heal safely after childbirth.
While these changes are normal, women with preexisting heart conditions should consult their cardiologist and obstetrician before or during pregnancy to ensure a safe experience.
The Importance of Pregnancy History for Long-Term Heart Health
Women should inform their health care providers of any past pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes, high blood pressure, preeclampsia, preterm delivery or delivering a small-for-gestational-age baby. These conditions can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease later in life.
What Health Care Providers Need to Know
Effective family planning is crucial for promoting healthy pregnancies. Providers should offer safe and effective birth control options to help women conceive when they are physically, emotionally and financially ready.
During pregnancy, all health care professionals — especially those in primary care, urgent care and emergency medicine — must be vigilant about hypertensive disorders. Pregnant or postpartum patients with blood pressure readings of 140/90 mmHg or higher should contact their obstetrician immediately. Severe symptoms such as headaches, vision changes, upper abdominal pain, or persistent nausea and vomiting should never be ignored, as they could indicate preeclampsia, a life-threatening condition.
Health care providers also should recognize that conditions like gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and preterm deliveries are independent risk factors for future cardiovascular disease. Keeping track of these risk factors and addressing them early can significantly improve long-term health outcomes.
Supporting Heart Health During and After Pregnancy
If you or a family member have a history of cardiovascular disease, proactive steps can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and postpartum period.
- Regular Medical Checkups: Frequent visits with your health care team can help monitor and optimize your health.
- Blood Pressure Monitoring: Consider using a reliable home blood pressure cuff to track readings and maintain safe levels.
Heart-Healthy Tips for Expecting and New Mothers
- Stay Active: Engage in safe physical activities such as walking, swimming, yoga or bodyweight exercises.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Emphasize whole grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes and lean proteins. The Mediterranean diet is particularly beneficial for heart health.
- Prioritize Sleep and Stress Management: A well-rested body and a calm mind contribute to better overall health.
- Seek Support When Needed: It’s OK to ask for help with childcare, household tasks or emotional well-being.
- Avoid Smoking and Vaping: If you smoke cigarettes, marijuana, or use vape products, discuss strategies with your doctor to reduce or quit these habits.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the connection between pregnancy and heart health is essential for both patients and health care providers. By taking proactive steps before, during, and after pregnancy, women can reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease and enjoy healthier lives. If you have concerns about your heart health during pregnancy, reach out to your health care provider for personalized guidance.