Postpartum cardiomyopathy

Cardiomyopathy (cardio, meaning heart, myo, meaning muscle and pathy, meaning illness) is diseased heart muscle that can’t function (contract) adequately. Cardiomyopathy results in the failure of the heart muscle to meet the needs of the body for oxygen rich blood and removal of carbon dioxide and other waste products. The end result is a weak heart that can’t maintain a normal ejection or cardiac output. When the heart fails to contract properly, oxygenated blood isn’t pumped adequately to the tissues and organs of the body. This inability to deliver oxygen to body tissue can lead to generalised weakness and fatigue. Other symptoms may include shortness of breath on exertion or chest pain. According to Wikipedia,

“Peri-partum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) is a form of cardiomyopathy that’s defined as a deterioration in cardiac function presenting typically between the last month of pregnancy and up to five months postpartum.” PPCM is a diagnosis of exclusion, so you have no prior history of heart disease, and there are no other known possible causes of heart failure. Echocardiogram is used to both diagnose and monitor the effectiveness of treatment for PPCM. The cause is unknown. Researchers are investigating certain viruses, autoimmunity or immune system dysfunction and other toxins that may serve as triggers. Micronutrient or trace mineral deficiencies, and genetics are other components that could contribute to or cause the development of PPCM.

Look after yourself, and take some time out in your busy day. Don’t feel guilty if you’re not with your baby all the time. You need time away to catch your breath in order to gather strength and resilience so necessary to cope with the demanding work of motherhood. The physical (and sometimes emotional) pain of birth and postpartum will subside and fade into memory as the joys of being a mother start to unfold for you. ●

Look after yourself and take some time out in your busy day … You need time away to catch your breath.