Can Congenital Heart Disease Pass from Mother to Baby?
Many expecting mothers in Rajkot and across Gujarat have one important question: "If I have a heart problem, will my baby have one too?" Dr. Nikhila Pachani, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Backbone Medicity Hospital, Rajkot, sheds light on this concern.
What Is Congenital Heart Disease?
Congenital heart disease (CHD) refers to a structural defect in the heart that is present at birth. It can affect the heart's walls, valves, or blood vessels. CHD is one of the most common types of birth defects, and understanding its causes can help families prepare and stay informed.
Can It Run in Families?
The short answer is: sometimes. Certain types of CHD are linked to genetics, which means they can run in families. If a parent — especially the mother — has CHD, there is a somewhat higher chance that the baby may also be born with a heart defect. However, this is not true for every case.
It is important to remember that not all heart defects are inherited. The cause matters a great deal.
Other Risk Factors During Pregnancy
Apart from genetics, some other factors during pregnancy may also increase the risk of CHD in a baby:
- Infections during pregnancy — certain viral infections in early pregnancy can affect the baby's developing heart.
- Certain medicines — some medications taken during pregnancy may pose a risk. Always inform your doctor about any medicines you are taking.
- Uncontrolled diabetes — mothers with poorly managed diabetes during pregnancy may have a higher risk of having a baby with CHD.
These are risk factors, not certainties. Many mothers with these conditions have perfectly healthy babies.
What Can You Do?
The good news is that early monitoring can make a big difference. Regular antenatal check-ups and timely scans — such as a fetal echocardiogram — can help doctors monitor your baby's heart health during pregnancy. Detecting a problem early means there is more time to plan the right care.
If you have a personal or family history of CHD, or if you have diabetes or another health condition, it is especially important to speak with your doctor before or early in your pregnancy.
A Word for Expecting Mothers in Gujarat
Awareness is the first step toward a healthy pregnancy. Knowing your risks and attending regular check-ups can go a long way in keeping both mother and baby safe.
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy and have concerns about your heart health or your baby's heart, consider consulting a qualified cardiologist for personalised guidance.