Other Health Concerns for Kids With Heart Disease

After your child's care at the Heart Institute at UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, it's vital to adopt healthy habits.

We offer tips for healthy living and facts about other concerns you may have about your child's health.

Will My Child's Severe Heart Disease Affect Having Kids in the Future?

Girls with severe heart problems have to think of their future.

Some women with very severe heart disease find out they aren't able to complete a pregnancy.

If you want to have kids, it's vital to ask your doctor if pregnancy is safe. If it is, you should discuss your plans for care before and during pregnancy with your heart doctor and ob-gyn.

Is Birth Control Safe for My Child?

As girls with heart disease grow into adulthood, they must discuss birth control with their heart doctor.

With some heart problems, you need to plan what type of birth control is safe for you to take.

Will My Child Pass On Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) to Their Child?

As children with CHD become adults and want to have a family, concerns about their own children's health arise.

The most pressing question is whether their child can inherit their heart disease.

While there's a slight chance of passing on the defect, the joy of having a child should outweigh the risk.

Your heart doctor or a genetic specialist are the best sources to turn to for finding out your personal risks.

Dental Care for Kids with Heart Disease

Taking proper care of your child's teeth is vital because of their heart problem.

The mouth is an easy place for bacteria to enter the bloodstream. This can increase their risk of endocarditis — an infection of the heart's lining or valves.

It's best to help your child avoid getting cavities or other dental problems.

We recommend that children older than 3 see the dentist once a year.

If you can't find a dentist who will treat your child because of their heart problem, contact our Dental Department. They can provide excellent dental or referral services.