Heart palpitations after giving birth

[Ivybutterfly]

Hi everyone, I was just wondering if anyone had palpitations after giving birth? I felt like an elephant was siting in me and heart palpitations after giving birth, and for days after. I still get them occasionally. My mother has heart problems so I am a bit paranoid about it. Anyone got any advice? It could be anxiety. I had a natural birth with no pain relief. Thank you.

[TammySwansonTwo]

Have you had your thyroid tested? Thyroid issues are common an and pn and can cause palpitations

[Ivybutterfly]

Thank you. That is very helpful. I do actually have a thyroid problem. Maybe that is why. I will speak to my doctor about it.

[Tinselistacky]

I had them for about a year after ds. I had an emcs and they have put it done to the stress of the day!! Had heart scan and ecg done regularly and nothing at all detected.
Push for tests if only for peace of mind.

[reallybadidea]

Also worth getting checked for anaemia.

[AFistfulOfDolores]

It could be pressure/stress on your vagus nerve caused by childbirth. Maybe ask about that.

[TammySwansonTwo]

NP - I would start there. I've had symptoms of hypothyroidism for years but results in normal range so no help there. I've been having palpitations since my twins were born too - only really notice at night but might just be too active to notice them during the day - so I've been looking into it.

Definitely have a word with your doctor - any other symptoms?

[TammySwansonTwo]

Have they been checking your thyroid function during and after your pregnancy? It can change a lot, so any meds may need to be adjusted.

[Ivybutterfly]

Thank you everyone. I have an under active thyroid and initially the doctor said I was taking the wrong dose of medication and lowered it. Still getting the palpitations though. I thought it might just be the stress of the birth. Heart problems run in the family though, which is why I am more worried. We also want another child at some point but I am worried about the stress on my body. Which is silly as no issues have been defected. As yet anyway.

[TammySwansonTwo]

Hmm. Usually people need their dose increased during pregnancy as the thyroid functions less effectively during pregnancy. I'm no doctor but I would definitely start theres

[Ivybutterfly]

It was increased in pregnancy. And now lowered in the weeks after the birth. It is definitely where to start. Thank you.