Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a rare but severe heart condition that can occur anytime during the second half of pregnancy or in the several months following delivery. It happens when the heart muscle becomes weakened, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively.
While PPCM can affect any pregnant person, risk factors may include:
Preeclampsia or hypertension during pregnancy.
Particularly African or Haitian heritage.
Carrying twins, triplets, or more.
Greater lifetime pregnancy count increases risk.
Higher risk if age is over 30.
Previous heart disease or PPCM.
Certain factors may contribute to PPCM risk.
PPCM symptoms can overlap with normal, common pregnancy or postpartum changes, so it’s important to recognize signs that may indicate a heart problem:
Especially noticeable when lying flat or at rest.
Swelling in legs, ankles, or feet that worsens.
Cough that wakes you up at night without clear cause.
Rapid or irregular heartbeat sensations.
Persistent tiredness or feeling unusually weak.
Discomfort or pain in the chest area.
If you experience these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. If untreated, PPCM can lead to severe complications like heart failure or blood clots. However, with early diagnosis and proper treatment, many people recover fully. Your doctor may perform a physical exam and discuss your symptoms, perform imaging tests like an echocardiogram (heart ultrasound), and collect blood to test for heart strain or other related issues. Treatment focuses on improving your heart function and managing symptoms. This may include medications to strengthen the heart, lower blood pressure, or prevent blood clots. Lifestyle adjustments are also an important part of treatment. Your provider may recommend a low-salt diet, avoiding heavy physical activity, and close monitoring by specialists. In rare cases, devices like a defibrillator (a medical device that delivers a shock to the heart to restore normal rhythm) or even a heart transplant may be needed.
If you’ve had PPCM, future pregnancies may carry significant risks. Discussing family planning with your healthcare team to make informed decisions is essential. Even after treatment, follow-ups with a cardio-obstetric specialist are key to ensuring your heart health. Early intervention can make a life-saving difference.