ABSTRACT
Before pregnancy Counselling Many women of childbearing age have undergone previous valvular surgical intervention. It is imperative that these women are counselled prior to conception if at all possible so that they understand the risks both to themselves and the fetus of undergoing a pregnancy. This allows an informed decision as to whether they want to proceed with a pregnancy. Most women with prosthetic valves have more than adequate cardiovascular reserve to undergo pregnancy; however, if there is doubt, investigation with exercise testing and echocardiography are recommended prior to conception.
