Understanding the Rising Risk
Pregnancy is a remarkable journey, and for many women, aging into their late 30s or beyond is a common reality. Recent research and clinical observations indicate that heart-related complications, including heart attacks, are increasingly reported among expectant mothers aged 35 and older. While pregnancy remains healthy for the vast majority, age-related changes, underlying conditions, and the added strain on the cardiovascular system can heighten risk for a heart attack during pregnancy, labor, or the postpartum period.
What Changes During Pregnancy That Affect the Heart
During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes significant circulatory changes: blood volume rises, the heart rate increases, and the heart works harder to supply both mother and growing fetus. In women past 35, these changes interact with other factors such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, or a history of cardiovascular disease. The combination can lead to conditions like gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, or even cardiac events if not monitored closely. Experts emphasize that many of these risks are modifiable with early prenatal care and ongoing risk assessment.
Key conditions to watch for
- Gestational hypertension and preeclampsia
- Heart rhythm disorders or undiagnosed heart disease
- Blood clotting issues that can impact blood flow
- Severe anemia or fluid overload
Warning Signs to Take Seriously
Any new or unusual symptoms during pregnancy should prompt medical attention. Be alert for:
- Severe chest pain or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
- Shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting spells
- Persistent chest discomfort with sweating or nausea
- Swelling in the legs with shortness of breath
These symptoms require immediate evaluation in an emergency setting. Even in the absence of classic heart attack symptoms, older expectant mothers may have atypical signs that deserve medical review.
Prevention and Ongoing Care
Prevention hinges on proactive prenatal care and lifestyle management. Strategies include:
- Early risk screening for cardiovascular factors—blood pressure, cholesterol, glucose, and body weight
- Managing chronic conditions with medical guidance (e.g., diabetes, hypertension)
- Healthy lifestyle choices: balanced diet, regular safe exercise, and avoiding smoking or alcohol
- Medication safety and fetal considerations—some therapies used in heart care may require adjustments during pregnancy
- Close monitoring during the third trimester and postpartum period when risk can be higher
What Expectant Mothers Should Do Next
If you are 35 or older and expecting, schedule a comprehensive preconception or early pregnancy checkup. Discuss any past heart problems, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney issues, or a family history of early heart disease. Your clinician may recommend a tailored plan that includes regular monitoring, potential referrals to a cardiologist, and a clear plan for labor and postpartum care.
Partnering with Your Health Team
A team approach—obstetricians, cardiologists, and primary care providers—can help identify risks early and implement prevention strategies. Open communication about symptoms, medications, and lifestyle choices ensures you and your baby stay as healthy as possible through pregnancy and after delivery.
Bottom Line
While heart attacks during pregnancy are not the norm, the risk appears to rise for women over 35 due to the interplay of age-related factors and pregnancy-related cardiovascular changes. With vigilant prenatal care, awareness of warning signs, and collaborative management of health conditions, many women can navigate pregnancy safely. If you have concerns, reach out to your healthcare team promptly.
