Factors contributing to risk of congenital heart disease in babies

While the cause of CHD for most babies is unknown, genetic and environmental factors may increase the risk of your baby developing CHD. Here’s what expectant parents should know.

• Family history and genetics: Most people with CHD do not have a close relative that also has CHD, but sometimes CHD can be inherited. If one person in your family has CHD, there may be chance other family members are at increased risk too. At Riley Children’s, our cardiovascular genetics program provides evaluation for heritable heart conditions. “If your baby is born with congenital heart disease, our team completes an assessment and comprehensive testing to determine if we can identify a cause. Even if we are unable to find a clear cause, we can talk about the risk of having another child with CHD and if family members should have additional testing,” said Elle C. Geddes, MD, pediatric medical geneticist specializing in cardiovascular genetics.

• Maternal health conditions: A mother’s overall health can affect fetal development. Pre-existing diabetes, obesity and poor nutrition, or other health problems could lead to a high-risk pregnancy and may affect a baby’s cardiovascular health. For women with chronic illnesses, pre-conception genetic counseling is an important step before becoming pregnant.

• Medications: A baby’s exposure to certain medications taken during pregnancy may also affect the development of the fetus’ heart. It’s best to consult a healthcare provider before starting or continuing any medication while pregnant or trying to become pregnant.

• Things you can do: The United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends all women who could become pregnant take a prenatal vitamin with adequate folic acid. If not already taking a prenatal vitamin, women should start to take prenatal vitamins as soon as they learn they are pregnant or when trying to become pregnant. “There is some evidence to suggest folic acid decreases the risks of having a baby with CHD, but there are also studies suggesting it has no effect on risk,” said Dr. Geddes.

• Alcohol: Non-genetic lifestyle decisions like drinking alcohol during pregnancy may increase the risk of a baby being born with CHD too.

As an expectant parent, you want the safest pregnancy possible. If a heart abnormality is suspected, your healthcare provider may refer to Riley Children’s to confirm the diagnosis. Although the exact cause of the CHD may be uncertain, our team of highly skilled professionals provides support every step of the way.