Lifelong Considerations

Parenting Tips

Parents often ask how they should treat their child who has a congenital heart condition. You will find the new normal in your household, but it is important not to live inside a bubble. Go out and experience life just like any other “healthy” child would. There may be some limitations, but the heart team at Nationwide Children’s Hospital will help support and guide you throughout the journey.

Future Pregnancies

Most of the time, congenital heart defects do not happen again with future pregnancies. However, it is recommended that you meet with a geneticist, maternal fetal medicine doctor (high risk), or obstetrician before getting pregnant again. They can help you find out if you are at high risk of having another child with a heart defect. They can also recommend options and testing.

Dealing with Stress

It is normal to feel stressed and overwhelmed during this journey. However, there are lots of people who can help. While your baby is in the hospital, you will meet the team that can help support you during this stressful time. This team consists of psychology, chaplains, social workers, the Advanced Illness Management (AIM) team, family liaisons, and nurses. If you would like support from a family who has a child with a single ventricle heart defect, we have parent mentors who will meet or talk with you according to your wishes. There are also many other outside support groups that can help (see page 59).

Call with Questions

The Heart Center at Nationwide Children’s is dedicated to the care of infants born with complex heart defects and people of all ages with heart problems. The single ventricle team offers a large support system for your family while making these hard medical decisions for your child. Please do not hesitate to contact us at 614-722-2530 with any questions or to arrange a meeting with your cardiologist or surgeon.