The American College of Cardiology (ACC) has published an Expert Consensus Decision Pathway providing recommended strategies for improving postpartum care for individuals with or at risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Key Details
The document recommends comprehensive postpartum cardiovascular care visits, early outpatient follow-up for symptom monitoring, management of postpartum cardiovascular emergencies, and addressing lactation, mental health, and contraception.
- Over half of pregnancy-related deaths occur after childbirth, with risk highest in the first two weeks postpartum.
- High-risk individuals include those with hypertension, obesity, dyslipidemia, and risk enhancers such as gestational diabetes, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, and preterm birth.
Background
The guidance emphasizes a structured approach to postpartum care beginning immediately after delivery and extending through the first year.
Recommended care includes:
- Early blood pressure management
- Cardiovascular symptom screening
- Comprehensive risk factor modification
- Transition to longitudinal preventive care
Statements
"The postpartum period is a critical opportunity to engage in collaborative patient care that is focused on improving short- and long-term cardiometabolic outcomes." — Kathryn J. Lindley, MD, FACC, chair of the writing committee.
The document acknowledges barriers to postpartum care and stresses the importance of a structured approach to reduce maternal morbidity, mortality, and inequities.
Endorsements
The document was developed in collaboration with and endorsed by the following organizations:
- American College of Nurse-Midwives
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
- Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine