03/09/2026
Knowledge is power!
Many women who develop Peripartum Cardiomyopathy (PPCM) were previously healthy, active, and had no known heart problems before pregnancy.
Some mothers report being told their symptoms were due to weight, stress, anxiety, or normal postpartum recovery. While those things can certainly affect how someone feels, they do not rule out a heart condition.
PPCM can affect women of many body types, lifestyles, and backgrounds, including moms who eat well, exercise regularly, and had healthy pregnancies.
Because symptoms like fatigue, swelling, shortness of breath, and heart palpitations can overlap with common postpartum experiences, it’s important that persistent or worsening symptoms are taken seriously and evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Tip for moms:
If something feels off after pregnancy, consider asking about heart testing or requesting a referral to a cardiologist for further evaluation. Seeking another opinion is okay when you feel something isn’t right.
Tips for Birth Workers:
• Take note if a mother says her breathing feels worse than expected or she can’t catch her breath while resting.
• Pay attention to sudden changes in swelling, especially in the legs, feet, or face.
• Encourage mothers to contact their healthcare provider to request a BNP blood test and cardiac referral
• Trust the mother’s instincts, many women say they knew something felt different before their diagnosis.
Because early detection saves lives. ❤️🩹
Visit: https://letstalkppcm.org/share-your-story-1 to share your PPCM story and help save lives.
