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Understanding What is The Normal Heartbeat of a Pregnant Woman

  • Writer: Monica Pineider
    Monica Pineider
  • 8 hours ago
  • 4 min read

Pregnancy changes everything in the body. One of those changes is the heartbeat. As a woman grows a new life, her heart works harder. This is normal. But it is essential to know what is too fast, too slow, or just right. Resting heart rate while pregnant increases, and understanding the normal heart rate for a pregnant lady helps track health. The resting heart rate during pregnancy typically rises by 10-20 bpm, and some women may experience an accelerated heart rate during pregnancy. This article looks at the regular heartbeat of a pregnant woman. We will also cover how heart rate changes and what it means for health.


Pregnant woman measuring her blood pressure, with a heart rate monitor showing an elevated heartbeat, subtly highlighting the natural changes in heart rate during pregnancy

Table of Contents


1. Understanding the Normal Heartbeat of a Pregnant Woman


Your heart pumps blood to your body. When you are pregnant, it also pumps blood to your baby. This extra work increases your heart rate. That is why knowing the normal heartbeat of a pregnant woman matters.


Changes in heart rate during pregnancy are expected. But understanding what is normal helps reduce worry and keeps both mom and baby safe.



2. Why Heart Rate Changes in Pregnancy


During pregnancy, a woman's blood volume increases. This helps feed and grow the baby. To move all that blood, the heart must beat faster.


Hormones also affect the heart. Progesterone relaxes blood vessels. This lowers blood

pressure. In response, the heart speeds up to maintain flow.


By the second trimester, most women feel this change. Their heart may beat faster even when resting.



3. Resting Heart Rate While Pregnant


Resting heart rate is the number of heartbeats per minute while at rest. It shows how hard your heart works when you're calm and still.


Before pregnancy, a healthy resting heart rate is 60 to 100 beats per minute (bpm). During pregnancy, the resting heart rate while pregnant usually rises.


In most pregnant women, it increases by 10 to 20 bpm. So, it’s common to have a resting heart rate of 70 to 110 bpm in pregnancy. This is still considered safe.


However, heart rate can vary between people. Your doctor may consider your health history to decide what is right for you.



4. Normal Heartbeat for Pregnant Woman


So, what is the normal heart rate for pregnant lady? The answer depends on the trimester and the woman's baseline health.


Here’s a general guideline:

  • First trimester: 70–90 bpm

  • Second trimester: 80–100 bpm

  • Third trimester: 85–110 bpm


These ranges are not strict rules. A little higher or lower can still be okay. But if your heart rate jumps too high or too low without cause, it’s time to check with a healthcare provider.



5. Accelerated Heart Rate During Pregnancy


Some women experience a sudden, fast heartbeat. This is calledan accelerated heart rate during pregnancy.


This might feel like:


  • Racing heart

  • Skipping beats

  • Fluttering in the chest

  • Feeling breathless


Pregnant woman in beige dress sits stressed in office, holding glasses. Two women discuss documents by window. Flipchart and plants nearby.

This can happen even while sitting or lying down. It often results from increased blood volume and hormonal changes.


In most cases, this is not dangerous. It may come and go and is often harmless. But it should still be monitored, especially if it happens regularly.




6. When to Be Concerned


It’s important to know when a fast heartbeat is a sign of trouble. Call your doctor if you have:



These could signal a heart rhythm problem or another condition. It’s always better to get it checked.


Pregnancy can also trigger existing heart issues. Women with heart conditions should be closely monitored.



7. How to Monitor Heart Rate in Pregnancy


You can track your heart rate at home. Here are easy ways:

  • Use a fitness tracker or smartwatch

  • Check your pulse with your fingers

  • Use a home heart rate monitor


To check manually if a pregnant woman has a normal heartbeat, place two fingers on your wrist or neck. Count the beats for 15 seconds. Multiply by 4 to get beats per minute.


Do this at the same time each day. Rest for a few minutes before checking. This gives a more accurate number.


Keep a record if your doctor asks for it. It can help guide your care.



8. Tips for a Healthy Heart During Pregnancy


A healthy heart supports a healthy pregnancy. Here are simple tips:


  • Stay active: Gentle exercise like walking or prenatal yoga helps.

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support circulation.

  • Eat balanced meals: Choose heart-friendly foods like fruits, veggies, and lean proteins.

  • Get enough sleep: Fatigue can stress your heart.

  • Avoid caffeine: Too much can increase heart rate.

  • Manage stress: Try deep breathing, meditation, or prenatal massage.





Always talk to your doctor before starting new routines.




9. Conclusion: Key Insights into the Normal Heartbeat of a Pregnant Woman


The normal heartbeat of a pregnant woman is faster than normal. This is due to changes in blood flow and hormones. The resting heart rate pregnancy range rises by 10–20 bpm.


An accelerated heart rate during pregnancy is common and often not serious. But knowing what’s normal helps you stay aware and feel more in control.


The normal heart rate for pregnant lady usually falls between 70 and 110 bpm, depending on the stage of pregnancy.


Use simple ways to monitor your heart rate. Stay in touch with your doctor. And support your heart health with good habits.


Pregnancy is a time of many changes. But with knowledge and care, your heart can beat strong for you and your baby.

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