The aorta is the largest artery that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the body.

It emerges from the heart and arches up and backward toward the left shoulder, then descends through the chest and abdomen, eventually splitting into two branches to go down each leg. The aorta is a complex, branching network that requires proper function to maintain health and life. In expecting mothers, aortic disease poses a serious threat to both the mother and the developing baby.

Types of Aortic Disease

There are two broad categories of aortic disease in expecting mothers: aortic dissection and aortic aneurysm.

Aortic Dissection

Aortic dissection is a severe condition in which the wall of the aorta tears, allowing blood to flow between the layers of the artery, causing it to separate.

The risk factors for aortic dissection include high blood pressure, genetic connective tissue disorders, and a history of aortic surgery.

Aortic Aneurysm

An aortic aneurysm is a bulging or ballooning of the aorta’s wall. The most common risk factors include high blood pressure, smoking, and a family history of aneurysm.

Aortic aneurysm is a significant risk to expecting mothers, as it can lead to catastrophic bleeding and a rupture of the aorta.

Aortic Disease Symptoms in Expectant Mothers

Aortic diseases such as aneurysm and dissection have nonspecific symptoms in expecting mothers, making them difficult to diagnose in the early stages. Some of the most common symptoms include:.

• Chest and back pain
• Sudden onset of sharp abdominal or back pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Pale skin and sweating
• Loss of consciousness
• Numbness or tingling in the limbs
• Weakness or paralysis

Risk Factors for Aortic Disease in Expectant Mothers

Several factors increase the risk of aortic disease in expecting mothers:.

Preeclampsia

The onset of high blood pressure and protein in the urine after 20 weeks of pregnancy is called preeclampsia. Women with preeclampsia are at higher risk for developing aortic dissection or aneurysm.

Genetic Connective Tissue Disorders

Expecting mothers with genetic connective tissue disorders such as Marfan syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome have higher chances of developing aortic dissection or aneurysm.

High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy

Expecting mothers with uncontrolled high blood pressure are at a higher risk of developing aortic dissection or aneurysm.

Smoking

Expecting mothers who smoke or are exposed to second-hand smoke have higher chances of developing aortic dissection or aneurysm.

Related Article The Danger of Aortic Anatomy during Pregnancy

Treatment for Aortic Disease in Expecting Mothers

Treatment for aortic disease in expecting mothers depends on the severity of each condition. Treatment options range from conservative management to emergency surgery.

The treatment plan is determined by the medical team, which includes an obstetrician/gynecologist and a vascular surgeon.

Conservative Management

For expectant mothers with mild to moderate aortic disease, conservative management may be the best option.

This includes close observation by a specialized healthcare professional and lifestyle modifications such as limited physical activity and blood pressure control.

Medical Management

Expecting mothers who develop aortic disease usually receive medications to control blood pressure and may require medications to reduce the risk of blood clot formation. These medications can be continued into the postpartum period.

Surgery

In cases of severe aortic disease, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgery can either be performed during pregnancy or after delivery. Depending on the type and severity of the aortic disease, options include open surgery and endovascular repair.

Preventive Measures for Aortic Disease in Expectant Mothers

Preventive measures can be adapted by expecting mothers to minimize the risk of aortic disease:.

Control High Blood Pressure

All expecting mothers should have their blood pressure checked regularly. For those with high blood pressure, medication and lifestyle modifications such as a reduced-sodium diet are essential to regulate it.

Avoid Smoking

Expecting mothers, particularly those with a family history of aneurysm, should avoid smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke during pregnancy.

Get Early Diagnosis and Management

Expecting mothers with a family history of aneurysm or connective tissue disorders must receive early diagnosis and management for aortic disease. Aortic ultrasound can be used to monitor the size of the aorta and detect any growth.

Warm-up exercises can also help keep the aorta from tearing.

Conclusion

Aortic disease is a severe condition that poses a high risk to expecting mothers and unborn babies. Early diagnosis, management, and treatment can reduce the risk of aortic disease in expecting mothers.

Preventive measures such as blood pressure control, smoking cessation, and early diagnosis can help to avoid aortic disease.