Heart Disease in Pregnancy Clinic

We also provide preconception planning to people with heart disease who are considering pregnancy.

We work closely with the maternal fetal medicine (MFM) specialists in the Medical Disorders of Pregnancy program to offer comprehensive support throughout your pregnancy.

What to expect

At your first appointment, you will meet with a cardiologist who will review your medical history and discuss your recent test results. Your cardiologist may also recommend a physical exam and heart tests such as an electrocardiogram (ECG) or echocardiogram (ECHO).

Throughout your pregnancy, your cardiologist or maternal fetal medicine (MFM) specialist may suggest other tests and diagnostic imaging, including bloodwork, fetal ECHOs, fetal ultrasounds and placental ultrasounds, as needed.

Whenever possible, our clinic care team tries to coordinate specialist appointments, ultrasounds or other tests on the same day as your visits to our clinic. This can make for a very long day, so please be prepared to spend several hours at the hospital.

Your cardiologist will work with you to develop a care plan that is specific to your needs. Your treatment may include any of the following:

• Medication to manage your heart health
• Adjusting medication for safety and effectiveness during pregnancy
• Monitoring your heart function with tests like ECGs and ECHOs
• Monitoring your blood pressure

Please note we are a teaching hospital, so you may see medical students, residents or other medical trainees as part of your care. Learners are supervised by other members of our dedicated health-care team who work together to provide you with comprehensive care.

What to bring

• Health (OHIP) card or valid health-care coverage
• Hospital card
• A list of your current medication
• A support person, if desired

How to access our services

You need a referral from a health-care provider to be seen at our clinic. Visit our referral criteria for more information.