COARCTATION OF THE AORTA AND PREGNANCY

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Abstract
Pregnancy is not rare in patients with coarctation of the aorta and the possibility of the existence of this abnormality should be considered in every case of hypertension occurring during pregnancy or soon thereafter. The absence of toxemia of pregnancy and fetal mortality in patients with coarctation of the aorta is impressive, and only one report was found that mentioned such an occurrence. This is in sharp contrast to the incidence of toxemia of pregnancy in patients with hypertension from other causes, which varies in reports in the literature from 10 to 30%. Coarctation of the aorta associated with pregnancy is an important abnormality which requires operation in many cases. Although there is not sufficient evidence to draw definite conclusions about the optimal time for resection, if resection of the coarctation is planned, it should probably be deferred until after delivery. The apparent lack of cardiovascular complications during labor argues against cesarean section and in favor of a pelvic delivery for patients with coarctation of the aorta.

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