Access to medical care globally for patients with peripartum cardiomyopathy: a clinical consensus statement of the Heart Failure Association of the ESC

Abstract

Peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) can be a serious condition, presenting with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction towards the end of pregnancy or in the months following delivery. Less than half of the patients fully recover their cardiac function within 6 months of diagnosis, with substantial regional variation. This clinical consensus statement addresses the global and regional heterogeneity of epidemiological data on PPCM, substantial variation in access to medical care, and the contributing factors to poor adherence, as well as the impact of socioeconomic factors. The scope of this document encompasses contemporary challenges and approaches for the management of women diagnosed with PPCM. We provide a framework of practical aspects of starting disease-specific and guideline-recommended medical therapy, rapid up-titration, and improving adherence. Furthermore, the importance of involving women with a new diagnosis of PPCM in the decision-making processes regarding various therapeutic options is highlighted, as this also affects the mental health and quality of life for the patient, as well as for the extended family.