What is a common sign of cardiac dysfunction in pregnancy that may indicate an underlying disorder?

In the context of pregnancy, a systolic ejection murmur is often encountered due to the increased blood volume and cardiac output that occurs as the body adapts to support the developing fetus. During pregnancy, normal physiological changes result in dynamic alterations in the heart, including changes in the heart’s flow patterns, which can lead to benign murmurs.

A systolic ejection murmur, typically occurring in the second intercostal space, can be a normal finding as blood is ejected through the aortic and pulmonic valves. However, if such a murmur is pronounced, persistent, or accompanied by other symptoms such as shortness of breath or edema, it could indicate possible cardiac dysfunction, necessitating further evaluation for underlying cardiac disorders such as valve disease or cardiomyopathy.

This contrasts with the other murmurs listed in the choices that may not have the same implications in a pregnant patient. While late systolic, diastolic, and pansystolic murmurs can occur, they are often associated with pathological conditions rather than the normal physiological adaptations seen in a healthy pregnancy. Therefore, the presence of a pronounced systolic ejection murmur warrants attention as it may suggest underlying cardiac issues requiring assessment and potential management.