Pregnancy heart rate expectations: A guide
During pregnancy, the average maternal heart rate typically increases slightly compared to non-pregnant values. Around 10 weeks gestation, the average maternal heart rate is about 79.3 beats per minute (bpm) and it gradually rises to approximately 86.9 bpm by 40 weeks, with a normal range roughly between 68 to 115 bpm depending on the individual and stage of pregnancy.
For the fetal heart rate, the average ranges from 110 to 160 bpm, with the heart beating fastest in the first trimester (around 180 bpm early on) and slowing down as pregnancy progresses to around 130 bpm near term (40 weeks). A normal fetal heart rate is characterized by a baseline between 110 and 160 bpm, variability, and accelerations.
Factors causing an atypical maternal heart rate during pregnancy include heart disease, arrhythmias, anxiety, and stress, as well as physical conditioning. Heart disease, disorders of heart rhythm or electrical conduction, blocked arteries, or other heart health conditions are more common in pregnancy. Arrhythmias can worsen during pregnancy or first manifest in this period, causing palpitations or abnormal heart rates. Emotional factors like anxiety and stress can raise heart rate and even create a feedback loop where awareness of increased heartbeat causes further anxiety. Highly active individuals might have lower heart rates, whereas lack of fitness could produce higher rates.
Factors causing an atypical fetal heart rate include bradycardia (below 110 bpm) and tachycardia (above 160 bpm), which may indicate fetal distress or complications such as fetal hypoxia (oxygen deficiency), acidosis, or placental insufficiency. Placental problems such as abruption may also associate with abnormal fetal heart rate patterns.
It is important to note that no specific single number defines the healthy maternal heart rate during pregnancy because it varies individually and over time. The priority is understanding why heart rates deviate rather than targeting specific bpm values. Regular prenatal care is crucial for monitoring heart health and reducing the risk of developing an untreated heart issue.
Pregnant individuals should discuss with their healthcare team to create a safe exercise routine. Moderate exercise is usually safe during pregnancy, but it's advisable to consult a doctor before trying a new or difficult routine. Aerobic exercise, such as walking, swimming, yoga, stretching routines, and dancing, are options for pregnant people. Pregnant people who are of a moderate weight before their pregnancy should consume 340 additional daily calories in the second trimester and 450 additional daily calories in the third trimester.
If experiencing symptoms such as chest pain or pressure, trouble breathing, an intense headache, stomach pain, sudden swelling in one or both feet or legs, or sudden high blood pressure, immediate medical attention should be sought.
| Heart Rate Type | Average/Normal Range | Atypical Range | Causes of Atypical Rate | |-------------------------|----------------------------------------|---------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------| | Maternal Heart Rate | 68–115 bpm during pregnancy | Lower or higher than usual | Heart disease, arrhythmias, anxiety, fitness| | Fetal Heart Rate (FHR) | 110–160 bpm | <110 bpm (bradycardia), >160 bpm (tachycardia) | Fetal distress, hypoxia, acidosis, placental issues |
If maternal or fetal heart rates fall outside typical ranges, medical evaluation is recommended to identify underlying causes and manage risks.
- In pregnancy context, multiple sclerosis (nsclc) or other neurological diseases might not manifest as symptoms due to hormonal changes.
- Hepatitis, a liver disease, may pose unique challenges during pregnancy, requiring careful monitoring and appropriate treatment in collaboration with health-and-wellness professionals.
- For women affected by colitis, ulcerative (inflammatory bowel diseases), understanding the disease progression and predictive factors could help in seeking appropriate care during pregnancy and childbirth.
- Psoriasis, a common skin condition, might worsen during pregnancy due to hormonal fluctuations, and managed care from dermatologists is crucial for managing symptoms.
- Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis can lead to depression as a result of the chronic pain and discomfort associated with these disorders. Mental health management and support during pregnancy are essential.
- The safety and efficacy of drugs like Paxlovid for treating cardiovascular diseases should be considered during pregnancy, with input from healthcare specialists.
- Science has shown a correlation between multiple sclerosis (nsclc) and cardiovascular disease, emphasizing the importance of monitoring heart health during pregnancy.
- In some cases, retargeting existing treatments for multiple sclerosis (nsclc) may offer potential benefits during pregnancy when considering traditional disease-modifying therapies.
- Women with multiple sclerosis (nsclc) or other health conditions like lupus should maintain their disease management plans as recommended by healthcare teams to ensure safe and healthy pregnancies.
- Pregnant individuals should be aware that multiple sclerosis (nsclc) or other chronic diseases might impact their ability to engage in fitness-and-exercise activities, and modifications would be needed as advised by healthcare professionals.
- Women's health, encompassing various aspects like reproductive health, mental health, and overall fitness-and-exercise, necessitates holistic care and support during and post-pregnancy.
