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Peripartum Cardiomyopathy is a serious heart condition that occurs during the last month of pregnancy or within five months postpartum. For many women, the heart may heal over time—but for others, it may remain weakened. Another pregnancy could place your life at risk.
Even if heart function improves, there's still a risk PPCM could return in a future pregnancy.
Women with lingering heart damage (reduced ejection fraction) face significant risks of heart failure or death in subsequent pregnancies.
Birth control should be discussed early—ideally before hospital discharge or at the first postpartum follow-up. Avoid estrogen-based methods if heart function is impaired, as they can increase blood clot risk.
Educating partners or family members can help with shared decision-making and emotional support.
If considering another pregnancy, a cardiologist and high-risk OB-GYN should evaluate your heart health.
You may need an MRI, ECHO, or BNP blood test before trying again.
Some women may be advised to avoid pregnancy completely for their safety.
Schedule a postpartum cardiology visit
Natural family planning (NFP), also known as fertility awareness methods, involves tracking the body’s natural fertility signals to avoid or achieve pregnancy. These methods are hormone-free and involve understanding and respecting the body's cycle.
Partner withdraws before ejaculation. Less reliable, but some use it in combination with other methods.
After having Peripartum Cardiomyopathy (PPCM), it carries serious health risks depending on heart function after recovery.
Care plan adjustments
Multidisciplinary team approach
Delivery planning
Accidental pregnancies can be frightening for PPCM survivors, because the risks are real and the decision-making can be overwhelming.
“Dealing with a serious illness can change your relationships with the people in your life,” Dr. Szabo said. “And chronic pain or illness can frustrate you, your friends and your family. How you and others respond to the stress of your condition can affect the quality of your relationships.”
Here are ways you can keep your relationship with your partner strong:
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