Research Article Clinical profile and obstetric outcome in pregnancies complicated by heart disease: a five year Indian rural experience

Background: Cardiac diseases are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in pregnant women in the developing world. This study illustrates the problem in rural India focusing on patterns of diseases, clinical features, and pregnancy outcome in these women. Methods: A retrospective analysis of five year data, from 2006 to 2010 for all patients admitted with cardiac disease in pregnancy. Results: Past history of heart disease was present in 70%. Rheumatic heart disease was predominant type in 83% and the chief complaint at admission was breathlessness in 44%. Mitral stenosis was the commonest lesion in 55% and mitral regurgitation with or without stenosis in 48%. Preeclampsia was seen in 20% and preterm labor in 10%. Spontaneous vaginal delivery was seen in 41% and cesarean in 20.6%. Conclusions: Heart disease in pregnancy is a high risk condition has a major impact on pregnancy. Associated obstetric complications along with lack of knowledge and ignorance regarding the pathology lead to unpleasant obstetric outcomes.