Peripartum Cardiomyopathy

Peripartum Cardiomyopathy - What it is

Peripartum cardiomyopathy is a condition when the heart becomes enlarged and weak during pregnancy. It occurs during the last month of pregnancy or within five months after delivery. The cause of peripartum cardiomyopathy is unknown. Women with peripartum cardiomyopathy have symptoms of heart failure. After pregnancy, the heart may returns to its normal size and function in some women, but a significant proportion of women continue to have poor heart function. Women without full recovery from peripartum cardiomyopathy have increased risk of complications in their subsequent pregnancies.

Peripartum Cardiomyopathy - Diagnosis

This condition is diagnosed by imaging of the heart by echocardiogram and/or cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

Peripartum Cardiomyopathy - Treatments

Treatment would include standard medications for heart failure. In advanced cases, Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) or a heart transplant maybe necessary.

Women who have this condition should be counselled on high risk of deterioration of heart function in their subsequent pregnancy, more so in women who have not recovered fully their heart function after present delivery.

Overview

Heart Failure

Article contributed by Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore; NHCS Cardiology @ SKH, Sengkang General Hospital

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