Pregnancy is a stress test on the heart
Events in pregnancy such as hypertension, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, placental abruption, fetal growth restriction, and stillbirth are associated with both short-and long-term cardiovascular risk in women.
Events in pregnancy such as hypertension, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, placental abruption, fetal growth restriction, and stillbirth are associated with both short-and long-term cardiovascular risk in women.
The physicians and staff at the BIRCH clinic have a special interest in preserving health and preventing cardiovascular disease
Informative Links
Pregnancy and Heart HealthThere are now more than two decades of research that have linked the events in pregnancy and future cardiovascular risk.
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Gestational DiabetesThough gestational diabetes resolves with the baby's birth, post-birth testing at 6 weeks to 6 months with a 75g 2 h oral glucose tolerance test is recommended.
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Hypertension and preEclampsiaHaving hypertension or pre-eclampsia in pregnancy is associated with increased risk of heart disease and stroke later in life. There are preventative measure you can take.
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Future pregnancies may be at risk of recurrence of similar complications.
There are strategies to reduce risk in the space between pregnancies, and at the start of a new pregnancy.
Space your pregnanciesContraception (or "birth control") is a way to prevent getting pregnant before your body is ready. Prescription contraceptives are free in BC. Your care provider will be happy to answer any questions!
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Exercise at least 150min/weekExercise is important for parents (and for babies) and has been proven to reduce pregnancy complications and improve mood.
Walking in nature, dancing, playing in the park... these are all ways to move your body that need no special equipment. Maybe swimming or going to the gym is your plan... go for it! |
Take low dose ASA (Aspirin)Starting low dose ASA (Aspirin) at 11-12 weeks of pregnancy and taking it every night will help to reduce complications of pregnancy including preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction and harmful early birth.
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