The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Detailed Management of Peripartum Cardiomyopathy

Treatment of cardiomyopathy developing between the last month of pregnancy and 5 months postpartum.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Detailed Management of Peripartum Cardiomyopathy?

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is systolic heart failure that develops in women without previously known heart disease during the last month of pregnancy or within 5 months after delivery. Ejection fraction is usually <45%.

Antiangiogenic factors such as prolactin and sFlt-1 are thought to play a role in the cardiotoxicity. Bromocriptine therapy (prolactin inhibition) has accelerated EF recovery in some studies.

Symptoms

Dyspnea and orthopnea
Peripheral edema
Palpitations
Chest pain
Dry cough
Fatigue and exercise intolerance

Risk Factors

Multiple pregnancy
Multiparity
History of preeclampsia
Advanced maternal age (>30)
African origin
Prolonged tocolysis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Dyspnea in late pregnancy or postpartum
  • Peripheral edema and inability to lie down
  • Palpitations and chest pain
  • When low EF is detected on echocardiography

Treatment Methods

01
ACE inhibitor or ARB (postpartum — enalapril is safe in breastfeeding)
02
Beta-blocker (carvedilol or metoprolol)
03
Diuretics (fluid overload reduction)
04
Bromocriptine (2.5 mg twice daily for the first week, then tapered — in selected cases)
05
Anticoagulation (EF <35% or intracardiac thrombus)
06
Counseling for subsequent pregnancy (contraindicated if EF has not fully recovered)

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kardiyoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Kardiyoloji

Hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure readings remain above 140/90 mmHg; early treatment helps prevent serious complications.

Coronary Artery Disease

Kardiyoloji

Narrowing of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attack.

Heart Failure

Kardiyoloji

Heart failure is a chronic cardiac condition characterized by shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

Kardiyoloji

A heart attack is a medical emergency; because heart muscle is lost by the minute, immediate intervention saves lives.

Atrial Fibrillation

Kardiyoloji

Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by an irregular heartbeat and increased risk of stroke.

Heart Palpitations

Kardiyoloji

Palpitations are usually due to benign causes, but underlying cardiac rhythm disorders must be ruled out.

Heart Valve Diseases

Kardiyoloji

Valve stenosis or regurgitation increases the workload of the heart and, over time, can lead to heart failure.

Aortic Aneurysm

Kardiyoloji

Aortic aneurysms are often silent; early diagnosis allows treatment before rupture (a life-threatening tear).

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.