Pregnancy in adults with congenital heart disease

The proportion of women with congenital heart disease (CHD) is steadily increasing. Accordingly there is an increasing need for information concerning the management of women affected by CHD. It is difficult to make general recommendations in this regard and individual assessment and consultation is essential. The most important factors include: which congenital heart defect has been diagnosed, whether or not it has already been treated interventionally or surgically and what residual manifestations are present. Only an overview of all the findings permits a stratification of risk. It is suggested that if a pregnancy is desired, the further approach during pregnancy and delivery needs to be determined in cooperation by congenital cardiologists and obstetricians.