What maternal conditions are known risk factors for congenital heart disease?

Maternal autoimmune diseases, particularly Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), are well-established risk factors for congenital heart disease (CHD) in the fetus. Women with autoimmune conditions may have an increased likelihood of having a baby with CHD due to underlying pathophysiological processes such as inflammation, autoantibody production, and other immunological changes that can affect fetal development. These conditions can lead to disturbances in the normal development of the fetal heart and vascular system, resulting in various forms of congenital heart defects.

Maternal age, obesity, and excessive caffeine intake are not as strongly associated with congenital heart disease. While advanced maternal age is a known risk factor for specific chromosomal anomalies, its connection to congenital heart disease is less direct compared to autoimmune diseases. Likewise, obesity may lead to other complications in pregnancy but does not have a consistent link to an increased incidence of congenital heart defects compared to autoimmune conditions. Excessive caffeine intake has been studied for various pregnancy-related risks but does not have a significant association with congenital heart disease.

Thus, the association of maternal autoimmune diseases, particularly SLE, with congenital heart disease highlights the importance of considering maternal health conditions during preconception and prenatal care.