Pregnancy complications may increase risk for artery disease, study finds

Pregnancy complications may increase women’s risk of peripheral artery disease later in life, new research suggests.

The study analysed data from more than two million women in Sweden who gave birth to single babies between 1973 and 2015.

Led by Casey Crump, the research examined the long-term risk of peripheral artery disease among women who experienced preterm delivery, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes or other adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Crump, professor in the department of family and community medicine at McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, said: “Our prior work has already shown that adverse pregnancy outcomes are associated with long-term risks of heart disease, stroke, and heart failure.

“This study builds on that work by showing that these women have an increased risk of peripheral artery disease, an important but understudied cardiovascular condition.”

Peripheral artery disease is often a precursor to long-term cardiovascular complications, including stroke, ischaemic heart disease and premature death.

The condition affects millions of people worldwide and occurs when narrowed arteries reduce blood flow, most commonly to the legs and feet.

Ischaemic heart disease occurs when the heart does not receive enough blood and oxygen, usually because the arteries have narrowed.

Symptoms of peripheral artery disease can include leg pain, cramps while walking, numbness, cold feet and sores on the feet or legs that are slow to heal.

Crump said women who experience pregnancy complications have an important opportunity after giving birth to make plans with their primary care doctor to monitor long-term risks.

Women who have experienced complicated pregnancies should speak with their doctor about possible future cardiovascular health risks.

Checks for blood pressure, diabetes and cholesterol are important.

While the period after childbirth is an important time for women to monitor their health, Crump said it is never too late to lower the risk of peripheral artery disease.

He said: “Women with a history of adverse pregnancy outcomes who seem to be doing well may still have a higher risk that can emerge later in life.”

Crump also suggested preventive steps such as avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight and following a healthy lifestyle.

He stressed the importance of long-term follow-up care and conversations with healthcare providers to help protect cardiovascular health later in life.