Abstract:
Background: Cardiac disease is an important life-threatening complication during pregnancy. It is frequently seen in pregnant women living in
resource-limited areas and often results in premature death. Aim: The aim of this hospital-based longitudinal study was to identify factors related
to adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes in pregnant women with cardiac disease in low-resource settings. Methods: The study enrolled
91 pregnant women with congenital or acquired cardiac disease over a period of 2 years in Kenya. Results: Maternal and early neonatal deaths
occurred in 12.2% and 12.6% of cases, respectively. The risk of adverse outcomes was significantly increased in those with pulmonary oedema
(OR 11, 95% CI [2.3–52]; p=0.002) and arrhythmias (OR 16.9, 95% CI [2.5–113]; p=0.004). Limited access to care was significantly associated with
adverse maternal outcomes (p≤0.001). Conclusion: Many factors contribute to adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes in pregnant women
with cardiac disease. Access to comprehensive specialised care may help reduce cardiac-related complications during pregnancy.