Heart Podcast Adverse events in pregnancy and future cardiovascular risk
Jun 3, 2025
Dr. Garima Sharma, a Cardiologist and Director of Women's Cardiovascular Health at Inova Health System, highlights the crucial link between adverse pregnancy outcomes and future cardiovascular risks. She discusses how conditions like gestational diabetes and hypertension during pregnancy can elevate these risks. The conversation emphasizes the importance of early screening and a collaborative healthcare approach to mitigate these dangers. Dr. Sharma also touches on integrating mental health into pregnancy care, underlining its impact on both maternal and cardiovascular well-being.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes and CVD Risk
- Adverse pregnancy outcomes significantly increase future cardiovascular disease risk.
- These outcomes include hypertensive disorders, gestational diabetes, preterm birth, and small-for-gestational-age infants.
Mechanisms of Pregnancy-CVD Link
- Preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders during pregnancy increase coronary artery disease and stroke risk by 3 to 4 times.
- The mechanism likely involves subclinical atherosclerosis and endothelial dysfunction following pregnancy.
Manage Risks Across Pregnancy Phases
- Screen women preconception for hypertension, diabetes, and lifestyle factors to reduce pregnancy and cardiovascular risks.
- Manage risks carefully during pregnancy and ensure coordinated care across specialties.