From the Guidelines
Yes, an electrocardiogram (EKG) can be safely performed on a pregnant woman. According to the European Society of Cardiology guidelines 1, the majority of pregnant patients have a normal electrocardiogram (ECG), with some common findings including transient ST segment and T wave changes. EKGs are non-invasive tests that measure the electrical activity of the heart using electrodes placed on the skin, and they pose no risk to the developing fetus.
During pregnancy, women may experience changes in their cardiovascular system, including increased heart rate and cardiac output, which can sometimes cause symptoms like palpitations or shortness of breath. An EKG can help distinguish between normal physiological changes of pregnancy and potential cardiac problems. Healthcare providers may recommend an EKG during pregnancy if a woman has symptoms like chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or shortness of breath, or if she has a pre-existing heart condition that requires monitoring.
Some key points to consider when performing an EKG on a pregnant woman include:
- The heart is rotated towards the left and on the surface ECG there is a 15–20 left axis deviation 1
- Common ECG changes can be related to a gradual change in the position of the heart and may mimic left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy and other structural heart diseases 1
- Holter monitoring should be performed in patients with known previous paroxysmal or persistent documented arrhythmia or those reporting symptoms of palpitations 1
The procedure is quick, painless, and does not involve radiation or medications that could harm the fetus. Some minor adjustments might be made to accommodate the pregnant woman's comfort, especially in later stages of pregnancy, but the test itself remains the same.
From the Research
EKG on Pregnant Women
- An electrocardiogram (EKG) is not explicitly mentioned in the provided studies as a diagnostic tool for pregnant women.
- However, the studies focus on the use of echocardiography as a diagnostic tool for cardiovascular disease in pregnant women 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Echocardiography is considered a safe and effective diagnostic tool for pregnant women with cardiac symptoms or known cardiac disease 2, 4, 6.
- The studies do not provide information on the safety or efficacy of EKG specifically for pregnant women.
Alternative Diagnostic Tools
- Echocardiography is the preferred modality for diagnosis and monitoring of pregnant women with cardiovascular disease as it is widely available and does not require radiation 4.
- Other diagnostic imaging modalities, such as cardiovascular testing and imaging, can be used in pregnancy, including indications, strengths, and limitations 3.
- Advanced cardiac ultrasound modalities, such as tissue Doppler imaging or speckle tracking echocardiography, can be used to identify subclinical changes in cardiac function during pregnancy 6.
Limitations and Future Research
- There is limited research on the use of EKG in pregnant women, and the provided studies do not address this topic directly.
- Further research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of EKG for pregnant women.
- The current studies focus on the use of echocardiography and other diagnostic tools for cardiovascular disease in pregnant women, highlighting the importance of careful multidisciplinary management for pregnant women with known heart disease 2, 4, 5.