Pregnancy & Heart Health: Why Murmurs Matter

The Heart’s Extra Work During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a beautiful season of change—but it’s also a time when the heart works harder than ever. A mother’s blood volume increases by up to 50%, and the heart pumps faster to nourish both mom and baby. With this extra workload, it’s not uncommon for doctors to hear a “murmur” during routine checkups.

But what exactly is a heart murmur, and should it be a cause for concern during pregnancy?

What Is a Heart Murmur?

A heart murmur is the sound of blood flowing through the heart that can sometimes be heard with a stethoscope. During pregnancy, many murmurs are considered “physiological” or “innocent”—caused simply by the increased blood flow. These are usually harmless and fade after delivery.

However, not all murmurs are innocent. In some cases, they may point to an underlying heart condition, such as:

• Valve problems

• Congenital heart defects

• Cardiomyopathy (weakened heart muscle)

That’s why careful evaluation is so important.

Why Murmurs Matter in Pregnancy

Pregnancy places unique stress on the cardiovascular system. If a murmur signals an underlying problem, ignoring it could lead to complications like:

• High blood pressure

• Irregular heart rhythms

• Heart failure

• Risks to both mother and baby

Detecting these issues early ensures safe monitoring and treatment throughout pregnancy.

The Role of Echocardiography (Echo)

When a murmur is detected, the safest and most accurate way to understand what’s happening is through an echocardiogram—an ultrasound of the heart.

An echo can:

• Show how well the heart valves are working

• Measure heart size and pumping strength

• Reveal hidden structural issues

• Provide peace of mind if the murmur is truly innocent

The best part? It’s non-invasive, radiation-free, and completely safe during pregnancy.

Taking Care of Two Hearts

Your pregnancy isn’t just about nourishing your baby—it’s about protecting your own heart health too. If your provider hears a murmur, don’t panic. Instead, ask whether an echocardiogram is the right next step.

Early detection and monitoring help ensure that both you and your baby stay healthy throughout this journey.

✅ Key Takeaway: Not every murmur is dangerous, but every murmur deserves attention. An echocardiogram can make the difference between worry and reassurance—for both hearts that matter.

For those seeking expert ultrasound services, Atlanta Ultrasound offers quick, efficient, and comprehensive scans. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing you with the clarity and care you need.

Contact us today to schedule your ultrasound scan and take a decisive step towards understanding your health.

📍 Multiple locations in Metro Atlanta, GA

📞 Contact: 678-590-3300

🌐 Website:www.atlantaultrasound.com

Disclaimer: The content of this blog post, authored by a sonographer, is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice, nor should it substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concerns.