Conclusions
Pre-existing heart disease in pregnancy is not without risk
and this risk is specific to each individual. Pre-conceptual
counselling is advisable as it encompasses the care and education
needed to promote women's health by encouraging
pre-pregnancy planning; moreover it reduces mortality and
morbidity rates. Women with pre-existing heart disease must
seek pre-pregnancy advice from a cardiologist and obstetrician
with expertise in the field. A patient- and lesion-specific
management strategy for treatment during pregnancy needs
to be defined, including labour and birth planning and postpartum
care.