02/13/2026
Each year, about 700 women in the U.S. die from pregnancy-related problems, and more than 50,000 women have life-threatening pregnancy complications. Heart and blood vessel conditions, such as coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, and cardiomyopathy, are leading causes. The good news is that most of these problems are preventable, meaning you can take steps before, during, and after pregnancy to help your heart health.
Pregnancy-related heart problems can happen to any woman, but your risk may be higher if you:
Are 40 or older
Are African American, American Indian, or Alaska Native
Are overweight or have obesity
Have heart problems
Get little physical activity
Use opioids or other illegal drugs
Drink alcohol
Smoke
Have existing heart disease, such as congenital heart disease or heart valve disease
Have an existing health condition, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, blood clotting disorders, sleep apnea, anemia, or polycystic o***y syndrome (PCOS)