Will endocarditis complicate my pregnancy?

VERY Unlikely: Any infection can occur at any time, but in perfectly healthy women, pregnancy does not increase the risk of endocarditis (infection of the heart valves). For women with mild heart valve issues, the american heart assoc. No longer recommends (based on data) that antibiotics need to be given before delivery (vaginal or cesearan section) just to prevent a valve infection.

?: Did it complicate your life before pregnancy? If the answer is no, pregnancy won't increase your risk. But delivery can - if you have an artificial valve, certain types of uncorrected congenital heart disease, or previous endocarditis.

Specialists: The fact you had endocarditis previously complicates your pregnancy as far as needing appropriate specialists involved in your care. Echocardiography should be performed and cardiology involved in your care as well as a high risk ob.