As a 20-week pregnant woman with a history of congenital heart disease, I am concerned about the potential risks to my baby. To ensure the health of my child, I want to be screened for this disease. Congenital heart defects are structural abnormalities of the heart that can occur in the fetus and persist into adulthood, affecting nearly 1% of children born and making them one of the leading causes of death in children.
Screening for congenital heart disease should be done early in pregnancy for all pregnant women, especially those at high risk due to conditions such as genetic diseases, gestational diabetes, and hypertension. Fetal echocardiography between 18-22 weeks of pregnancy is recommended to detect most heart defects. Early diagnosis allows for prompt treatment and intervention to improve the chances of survival for the child.
Even mild congenital heart diseases may not be diagnosed until after birth, so it is important for parents to continue screening during a normal pregnancy. They should also be vigilant for signs of heart problems in their children, such as poor weight gain, rapid breathing, and recurrent pneumonia. Postnatal monitoring through various diagnostic tests like electrocardiography, X-rays, and echocardiography is essential to detect any potential issues with congenital heart disease.
For adults with congenital heart disease, complications such as arrhythmia, heart failure, and stroke pose a significant risk. It is essential to be aware of any symptoms and seek medical attention if needed. Genetic factors play a role in congenital heart disease, so if you have the condition yourself or have family members who do, your child may have a higher risk of having it as well.
As someone who wants to ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy for myself and my baby, I recommend choosing a medical facility with expertise in both obstetrics and cardiology. With proper screening and monitoring throughout pregnancy and postnatal care after birth, we can help prevent complications associated with congenital heart disease.
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