Most patients who have less severe forms of heart valve disease will
undergo pregnancy without complication though very careful medical
supervision is always advisable. If the valve disease is severe then the risk
of pregnancy to both mother and baby is greater. This is a matter for
detailed discussion between the patient and her doctor. If a woman is very
keen to have a baby and she has severe valvular disease then the cardiologist
may even advise valve surgery before embarking on the pregnancy.
Occasionally severe valve disease may only come to light during pregnancy.
Usually it is possible in these circumstances to continue with the pregnancy
under strict medical supervision; valve surgery if it has to be done during
pregnancy can be undertaken.