Corrected QT interval (QTc) among pregnant women during different gestational periods

Abstract

Cardiovascular changes and hence electrocardiographic changes do occur as duration of pregnancy proceeds. There is not much data available on particularly QT interval and corrected QT interval (QTc) in different phases of pregnancy. Pregnancy can precipitate cardiac arrhythmias in later phases in apparently healthy women due to changes in the electric activity of the heart and prolonged QTc is one of the causes. Since prolonged QT interval can precipitate arrhythmias, we thought it is essential to fi nd baseline value for QT interval and QTc in different phases of pregnancy to detect pregnant women at risk. Aims: Our aim of the study was to record QTc in pregnant females during different phases to establish fact that QTc can be correlated with duration of pregnancy. Materials and Methods: Cross-sectional study, 202 pregnant individuals were selected from the antenatal clinic with different phases of pregnancy. All were subjected for electrocardiogram (ECG). QTc was calculated using Bazett’s formula and QT intervals were correlated with duration of pregnancy. Results: There was signifi cant gradual increase in QTc with duration of pregnancy. There was signifi cant positive correlation between duration of gestation and QTc (r = 0.277) (P < 0.001). Conclusion: QTc prolongation occurs as pregnancy proceeds.