Middle Tennessee mother finds cardiovascular problem after second pregnancy

The connection between pregnancy, postpartum complications, and knowing your family’s heart health history isn’t something most expecting women consider during pregnancy. Early intervention can make all the difference

That’s exactly what Britain Games learned during a routine postpartum checkup at Ascension Saint Thomas in Nashville, Tennessee. 

A life-changing diagnosis

Britain knew from her family’s history that she was at risk for cardiovascular disease, but some health concerns following her second pregnancy made her search for answers. 

“I've always had some strange symptoms that I could never pinpoint what exactly was the root cause,” she said. “I have things like fluttering, hypertension, standing up quickly and feeling very faint spells.” After speaking with her OB-GYN about the symptoms, she was referred to a cardiologist. It was then that she received a call about Dr. Hannah Fish-Trotter, cardiologist at Ascension Saint Thomas Heart,who specializes in postpartum care.

Dr.Fish-Trotter discovered a heart defect that coupled with her high risk of cardiovascular disease set a plan in place for treatment. This diagnosis was unexpected, yet it gave her the opportunity to be proactive about her heart health. “I'm definitely glad that I caught what I did when I did. I don't think if I had this pregnancy, I would have necessarily unmasked something that I didn't know was there,” she said. “Now I have years in advance to take care of anything preemptively.” 

Postpartum care and heart health

Dr. Fish-Trotter explains that one of the key areas of focus is the risk of cardiovascular disease in women who experience certain complications during or after pregnancy. “Although women may be young, even at childbearing age and presumably healthy with no concerns, there are risk factors that we can identify and be proactive to manage,” she shared.

Pregnancy and the postpartum period are often overlooked in terms of heart health, but the reality is that complications—such as high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes—can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease down the line. By identifying these risks early, healthcare providers can help women like Britain manage their heart health long before more serious issues arise.

Early detection can save lives

For Britain, discovering her heart defect early was a blessing. She is taking medication daily to help to lower her cholesterol levels to prevent a future heart attack or stroke. 

Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of postpartum checkups and the role they can play in detecting potential heart issues. It also highlights how advancements in women’s healthcare—like specialized care for postpartum women—are paving the way for better outcomes and long-term health.

Cardiovascular disease is often thought of as something that affects older adults, but for women who experience certain pregnancy-related complications, the risks may begin much earlier.

Ascension Saint Thomas Heart is at the forefront of recognizing and addressing these risks, and Dr. Fish-Trotter’s work in postpartum care shows the importance of early detection and management of heart health.

Personalized heart care during pregnancy

If you’re a new mother or planning a pregnancy, it’s important to have open discussions with your healthcare provider about your heart health and any risks you may face. Early detection, like in Britain’s case, can save lives and prevent more serious health issues in the future. To schedule an appointment with our heart specialists call 615-284-4HER or visit Ascension.org/SaintThomasWomensHeart.