Risk factors

Certain environmental and genetic risk factors might play a role in the development of congenital heart disease, including:

• Your genes. Congenital heart disease appears to run in families (inherited) and is associated with many genetic syndromes. For instance, children with Down syndrome often have heart defects. Genetic testing can detect Down syndrome and other disorders during a baby's development.
• German measles (rubella). Having rubella during pregnancy may affect how the baby's heart develops while in the womb.
• Diabetes. Having type 1 or type 2 diabetes during pregnancy also may affect a baby's heart development. Gestational diabetes generally doesn't increase the risk of congenital heart disease.
• Medications. Taking certain medications while pregnant can cause congenital heart disease and other birth defects. Medications linked to heart defects include lithium for bipolar disorder and isotretinoin (Claravis, Myorisan, Zenatane, others), which is used to treat acne. Always tell your doctor about the medications you take.
• Alcohol. Drinking alcohol while pregnant also contributes to the risk of heart defects in the baby.
• Smoking. A mother who smokes while pregnant increases her risk of having a child with a congenital heart defect.