Expecting? Stay Heart-Healthy for You and Your Baby

By Cara Murez Health Day Reporter

Tuesday, December 26, 2023 (News Day) A pregnant woman can always start healthy behaviors for herself and her unborn child at any time. Some advice on heart health is provided by the American Heart Association (AHA).

"From both short- and long-

term perspectives, pregnancy is often a pivotal time in a woman's life," stated Dr. Michelle Albert, the American Heart Association's (AHA) most recent president. "For some, it may be their first experience with a major medical condition;

for most, it's a natural time to be more forward-

thinking about their own health as well as that of their baby," Albert stated in a news release from the AHA. The American Heart Association states that preeclampsia and other cardiac disorders put expectant moms and their unborn children in danger.

According to a 2022 study, approximately 40% of American women who gave birth had healthy hearts before becoming pregnant. According to the AHA, being overweight was the main cause of poor pre-pregnancy health. "Making healthy lifestyle adjustments, getting regular prenatal care, and, if necessary, post-pregnancy cardiovascular risk factor management can all enhance the experience of getting pregnant and giving birth." Albert said. "Just as importantly, taking these steps may lead to a longer, healthier life for mom and baby." According to the American Heart Association, healthcare professionals can have an impact by encouraging lifestyle modifications and closely monitoring a pregnant woman's cardiac health.

It is impossible to overstate the importance of leading a healthy lifestyle when pregnant, according to Albert. "Healthy diet, moderate exercise, including walking, smoking cessation, and other healthy behaviors, are important tools for a healthy pregnancy for both mother and child."

The American Heart Association encouraged pregnant women with heart-related issues to carefully collaborate with their physician to monitor their health and to take all prescribed medications as directed.

 

"There is still much to learn about the special risks of maternal and infant health related to cardiovascular health," Albert stated. "The American Heart Association is still very much involved in this field, investing funds for research and other resources to make sure that parents and infants have the best possible health throughout their lives.