Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Maternal Outcomes of Atrial Fibrillation during Pregnancy

Objectives: This study aims to assess the prevalence, identify contributing risk factors, and evaluate the maternal outcomes associated with atrial fibrillation (AF) during pregnancy. Methodology: A prospective cohort study was conducted between July 2022 and June 2024, involving 150 pregnant women diagnosed with AF. Data on demographics, medical history, and clinical outcomes were collected through structured patient interviews, clinical examinations, and standardized diagnostic tools, including electrocardiograms (ECG) and echocardiography. Results: The mean age of participants was 29.4 years, with an average body mass index (BMI) of 25.1 kg/m². Hypertension (45%) and diabetes (18%) were the most prevalent comorbidities. More than half of the participants were aged 35 years or older. Atrial fibrillation was diagnosed at an average gestational age of 24.5 weeks. Maternal outcomes included heart failure in 9.3% of cases, thromboembolic events in 5.7%, and 42% of pregnancies requiring cesarean section. Vaginal delivery was achieved in 58% of cases. Preterm labor occurred in 16% of pregnancies. Neonatal outcomes included a 12% NICU admission rate and a neonatal mortality rate of 1.5%. The average birth weight was 2,800 grams, with Apgar scores of 7.2 at one minute and 8.5 at five minutes. Conclusion: Atrial fibrillation during pregnancy is associated with significant maternal and neonatal complications, including heart failure, thromboembolic events, and preterm birth. These findings underscore the importance of close monitoring and individualized care for pregnant women with AF. Further research is necessary to develop targeted intervention strategies to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes for this high-risk group.