Pregnancy places significant demands on the heart, and women with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) face risks that require specialized evaluation and close monitoring throughout pregnancy and delivery. The type and severity of the heart defect, any prior surgeries, current cardiac function, and medications all affect the safety of pregnancy and the level of care needed.
What Pre-Conception Counseling Covers
Before becoming pregnant, women with CHD should discuss:
- Maternal cardiac risk stratification using validated tools such as mWHO classification.
- Expected changes in heart function during pregnancy, labor, and delivery.
- Safety of current medications and alternatives that are safe in pregnancy.
- Genetic risks of passing on a congenital heart defect to the baby.
- Delivery planning, including site, mode, and anesthesia considerations.
- Contraception options if pregnancy is not planned.
Have questions about your care?
Speak directly with our team — no referral needed for most consultations.
Congenital Heart Compass Medical PLLC provides pre-conception counseling and ongoing pregnancy-related cardiac care for women with congenital heart disease across New York State. We collaborate closely with maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) specialists and obstetricians to ensure coordinated, individualized care throughout your pregnancy journey.
Reviewed by Dr. Pradeepkumar Charla, MD, MBA, FAAP, FACC
Pediatric & Adult Congenital Cardiologist — Congenital Heart Compass Medical PLLC
Last reviewed:
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified cardiologist for decisions about your congenital heart disease care.