Will rheumatic fever affect my ability to have children in the future?
Pregnancy may just need more planning
Rheumatic fever or rheumatic heart disease does not mean that you won't be able to get pregnant or have a healthy baby. It just may need more planning.
Keep going to the doctor, nurse or midwife throughout pregnancy
Pregnancy can put stress on the heart, so it's very important to keep going to the doctor, nurse or midwife throughout pregnancy for regular check-ups. It's also important to continue your bicillin injections. They are safe to have during pregnancy.
If you're taking warfarin, talk to your doctor before becoming pregnant
If you have rheumatic heart disease, have had surgery and are taking warfarin, it's especially important to talk to your doctor (rheumatic fever specialist or GP) before becoming pregnant.
If you become pregnant while taking warfarin, contact your doctor immediately to plan how to keep your baby healthy.
Warfarin Guide For Rheumatic Heart Disease
My Rheumatic Fever & Rheumatic Heart Disease Journey Introduction
Checklist - Going Home From Hospital After My Rheumatic Fever
Taking Care Of My Health After A Diagnosis Of Rheumatic Fever
What Exactly Is Rheumatic Fever?
My Rheumatic Fever & Rheumatic Heart Disease Journey In Pictures
What Exactly Is Rheumatic Heart Disease?
How Will My Rheumatic Fever Be Managed?
What Other Ways Can I Look After My Health After Rheumatic Fever?
When Can I Return To Doing The Things I Enjoy After Rheumatic Fever?
Will I Need Regular Medical Check-Ups After Rheumatic Fever?
Looking After My Mouth & Gums After Rheumatic Fever
Wanting To Plan To Have A Baby After Rheumatic Fever? (You are here)
Acknowledgements
This information is adapted from the rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease booklet produced by the Rheumatic Fever Project Team, Te Whatu Ora - Counties Manukau, 2022.
References
Rheumatic fever and rheumatic heart disease booklet (PDF, 9.94 MB). Te Whatu Ora - Counties Manukau, 2022.
