“Can pregnancy cause changes in heartbeat?”
I am 26 weeks pregnant, and lately, I've noticed that my heartbeat has changed, a lot. Suddenly, my heart beats fast and suddenly gets very slow. Could this be due to my pregnancy?
16 Answers
CardiacElectrophysiologistPregnancy
Absolutely, pregnancy can increase your heart rate and it's not uncommon for the basal heart rate to be around 100-110 bpm, which is quite normal. However it is worthwhile to visit your physician and have a baseline ECG done to confirm that this is appropriate sinus tachycardia. Best of luck with your pregnancy!
During a normal pregnancy, there is a change in blood volume. What is described here is arrhythmia. It is not normal. See a cardiologist.
The intravascular volume in pregnancy increases significantly resulting in a faster heart rate. Arrhythmias in pregnancy are rare but we do see them sometimes. Wearing a Holter or an event monitor may be a good way to start your evaluation. There are also apps for a smart phone (i.e. Kardia) which may be helpful as well.
Pregnancy can have various effects on the heart rhythm, as the hormones that rise/fall during pregnancy can have effects on the electrical conduction properties of the heart. It is also possible that you have always had the substrate for the arrhythmia, and being pregnant is simply coincidental. You should be evaluated by a cardiac electrophysiologist (a cardiologist who specializes in heart rhythm issues) to be diagnosed properly. The therapy will depend on exactly what rhythm is diagnosed. You should look for a Board Certified EP, and you can search on HRSonline.org
yes, palpitations are very common, if this is associated with chest pain or shortness of breath notify your doctor or go to emergency room for evaluation.
Yes. First, congratulations! The cardiovascular system must change during pregnancy to keep up with the demands of the fetal growth, and so the heart rate changes and cardiac output increases.
It is possible to have palpitations due to pregnancy, but should be evaluated by your doctor to be certain.
Yes, pregnancy can cause your heart rate to go up. Typically, cardiac function increases during pregnancy; it can cause your heart to beat faster.
This is most likely an underlying condition that is made worse by the stress of the pregnancy. See your OB so they can send you to a cardiologist to get a holter monitor. You also need to eliminate all stimulants, such as caffeine and smoking.
It could be, but this is something that you need to discuss with your Obstetrician who may want you evaluated to rule out a more serious condition of the heart. Often, the stress of pregnancy will bring out an underlying condition and pregnancy is especially stressful on the cardiovascular system with many significant changes that occur. Usually a young healthy woman will have no issues.
Pregnancy is a hyperdynamic state! Your pulse may change depending on your activity and hydration status. Your blood pressure, anxiety level and temperature may all influence your pulse rate. See a Provider if you are concerned.
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Chunjai P. Clarkson
OB-GYN (Obstetrician-Gynecologist)
Pregnancy is associated with dramatic physiologic changes including increased blood volume and cardiac output. Increased heart rate and fluctuations in heart rate are common and can be normal. However, persistent palpitations can indicate underlying disorders of the heart such as frequent pre ventricular contractions (PVCs). A baseline EKG, exam for abnormal heart sounds, lab studies, and sometimes a referral for Holter monitoring and echocardiogram might be ordered. Very severe or prolonged symptoms due to abnormalities of heart rhythm are treated with medication. Make sure you stay adequately hydrated, as this can affect heart rate as well.