Peripartum Cardiomyopathy

Peripartum Cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a form of heart failure that develops in young women during pregnancy or after giving birth. In PPCM, the left side of the heart becomes enlarged which reduces the amount of blood and oxygen the heart can pump to the rest of the body. Other organs like the kidneys depend on a certain amount of blood and oxygen to work properly so they adjust to this problem by retaining more fluid. Too much fluid (fluid retention) can cause damage to other organs. Now the heart has to work even harder because of the extra fluid in the body, resulting in further enlargement of the heart. This on-going cycle leads to worsening heart function over time and may even result in death.

Importantly, medical treatment can help to prevent further damage to the heart and a majority of women with PPCM will recover from this disease. However, some women may not regain full cardiac function (meaning their heart may not work as well as it did before heart failure developed during pregnancy). Medical complications are also common and may impact recovery. More intensive treatment or long-term follow-up by a cardiologist may be needed for some women.

Treatment

Medications are used to help improve heart function or prevent or treat complications such as blood clot formation and abnormal heart rhythms. Medications are also used to reduce some of the unwanted side-effects of heart failure.

Women with more severe heart failure symptoms may need more intensive treatment. Medical devices such as a Life Vest, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), or ventricular assist devices (VADs) can be used to help the heart beat at a normal rate and rhythm. A small percentage of women may eventually need a heart transplant.

Doctors may also recommend following a low salt diet because salt holds water in the body and means more work for the heart. Salt also increases blood pressure and high blood pressure means that your heart has to work harder to pump blood to the rest of your body.

For many women with PPCM, managing a complex medical condition while taking care of a newborn baby is extremely challenging. And it can be hard to remember to take your medications when you need to. Some women find it helpful to use a pillbox or set reminders on their cell phone to help them remember to take their medications. If you are having problems taking your medications, talk to your medical team. They are a great resource and can help you learn strategies to better manage your condition and medications.

This page contains information for educational purposes only and should not be used as an alternative to seeking professional medical help. We encourage you to consult with health care professionals to obtain medical advice.