heart doctors in yelahanka New Town, Bangalore Mitral stenosis Rheumatic mitral stenosis is rare in developed countries but is an important cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality in many parts of the world. Mitral stenosis is often poorly tolerated because of the shortened diastolic filling period that occurs during pregnancy. A mitral valve area of less than 1.5 cm2 means a considerable risk to the mother of pulmonary oedema as pregnancy proceeds. Even previously asymptomatic patients are at risk. Close follow-up and regular echocardiograms are indicated. Treatment to slow the heart and increase the length of diastole (beta-blockers) should be commenced if symptoms (dyspnoea) appear or the Doppler echo measurement of pulmonary artery pressure exceeds 50 mmHg Diuretics may improve symptoms but for severe stenosis balloon valvotomy can be performed during pregnancy There are risks to the mother and fetus associated with the procedure, which should be performed only at an experienced centre and only for severe stenosis..