Why are diuretics prescribed for women with CD during pregnancy?

Diuretics are prescribed for women with cardiac disease (CD) during pregnancy primarily to promote diuresis, which helps reduce blood volume. In pregnancy, women experience a significant increase in blood volume as part of natural physiological changes. However, for those with existing cardiac issues, this increase can lead to complications such as fluid overload, which can strain the heart and exacerbate existing conditions.

By utilizing diuretics, healthcare providers aim to remove excess fluid from the body, thereby decreasing overall blood volume. This reduction in blood volume can alleviate the workload on the heart, improve cardiac output, and lower the risk of heart failure or other related complications that may arise due to the combined stress of pregnancy and pre-existing cardiac conditions. Therefore, the use of diuretics in this context is a critical management strategy for ensuring both maternal and fetal safety.