Summary
HRV naturally decreases during pregnancy due to cardiovascular adaptations supporting the growing fetus. This is normal and typically resolves within 3-6 months postpartum.
Methods
Longitudinal HRV tracking through pregnancy and postpartum
Key Findings
- HRV decreases 10-30% during pregnancy
- Lowest HRV typically in third trimester
- Recovery begins within weeks of delivery
- Full recovery typically within 3-6 months postpartum
Limitations
Complications may alter patterns; individual variation exists
What This Means for You
Pregnant women should expect lower HRV—this is a normal adaptation. Compare to your own pregnancy baseline, not pre-pregnancy values. Persistent very low HRV may warrant discussion with your provider.
Source
Read the original paper in Pregnancy Hypertension ↗
Added to HRV Zone: 2025-01-09