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Atrial fibrillation is a common type of irregular heartbeat, also called an arrhythmia. The condition is commonly called AFib. If you have AFib, you might need to change how you manage it during pregnancy. For instance, you might be told not to take some medicines while you're pregnant.

Atrial fibrillation increases the risk of blood clots in the heart. Pregnancy increases the risk of blood clots in the legs. Taking blood thinners, also called anticoagulants, can help reduce these risks. But some blood thinners may not be safe to take during pregnancy. If possible, tell your healthcare team about all the medicines you take before you become pregnant.

Pregnancy can make AFib worse. Also, it's possible to develop the irregular heartbeat while you're pregnant. Talk to your health care team to create the safest treatment plan for you and your growing baby.