Cureus. 2025 Apr 3;17(4):e81678. doi: 10.7759/cureus.81678. eCollection 2025 Apr.
ABSTRACT
Objective This study aims to evaluate the prevalence, maternal and neonatal outcomes, and clinical implications of heart diseases in pregnancy. Methods A prospective observational study was conducted on pregnant women diagnosed with heart disease. Maternal and neonatal outcomes, including mortality, preterm birth, and mode of delivery, were assessed. Statistical comparisons were made based on ejection fraction (EF < 30% vs. EF ≥ 30%). Results Peripartum cardiomyopathy (n = 10, 27.78%) and rheumatic heart disease (n = 10, 27.78%) were the most prevalent cardiac conditions, followed by prosthetic valve disease and acyanotic congenital heart disease, each contributing to 11.11% (n = 4) of cases. A significant proportion of patients (n = 20, 55.56%) presented between 32 and 37 weeks of gestation. The study observed a maternal mortality rate of 13.89% (n = 5), with a stark contrast between women with an EF of <30% (n = 4, 33.33% mortality) and those with an EF of ≥30% (n = 1, 4.17% mortality). ICU admissions were required in 22.22% (n = 8) of cases, predominantly in women with an EF of <30% (n = 6, 50% vs. n = 2, 8.33%). Vaginal delivery was achieved in 66.67% (n = 24) of cases, while 27.78% (n = 10) underwent cesarean section. Among neonatal outcomes, 77.78% (n = 28) of infants were preterm, 52.78% (n = 19) had low birth weight (LBW), and 30.56% (n = 11) were small for gestational age (SGA). NICU admissions were recorded in 19.44% (n = 7) of cases, with a neonatal mortality rate of 5.56% (n = 2). Conclusion Heart diseases in pregnancy significantly impact both maternal and neonatal outcomes. Early detection and multidisciplinary management are crucial for improving prognosis and reducing complications.
PMID:40330387 | PMC:PMC12051082 | DOI:10.7759/cureus.81678
