CPR for Pregnant Women: What You Need to Know to Save Two Lives
When a pregnant woman experiences cardiac arrest, every moment is critical — not just for her, but also for her unborn baby. Performing CPR and First Aid in pregnancy requires a few key modifications to protect both lives.
At Health Solutions of America, we believe everyone should feel confident responding during an emergency, including unique situations like this one. Here is what you need to know about CPR for pregnant women and how it differs from standard CPR.
Why Cardiac Arrest Can Happen During Pregnancy
Cardiac arrest during pregnancy is rare but serious. It may be caused by:
- Severe bleeding or trauma
- Blood clots or pulmonary embolism
- Preeclampsia or eclampsia
- Heart conditions (existing or pregnancy-induced)
- Anesthesia complications during delivery
When a pregnant woman’s heart stops, both the mother and baby depend on immediate, effective CPR.
How CPR Changes for Pregnant Women
1. Call for Help Immediately
Call 911 or have someone else do it while you begin CPR. If available, ask another person to bring an AED (automated external defibrillator).
2. Adjust Positioning to Improve Blood Flow
During late pregnancy, the uterus can press on a major vein (the inferior vena cava), reducing blood flow to the heart. To improve circulation during CPR:
- Gently push the uterus slightly to the left, or
- Place a rolled towel, blanket, or hand under one hip to tilt the body 15–30 degrees to the left.
This adjustment helps CPR work more effectively.
3. Perform Chest Compressions
Compressions are the same as in standard adult CPR:
- Hand placement: Center of the chest on the lower half of the sternum
- Depth: At least 2 inches (5 cm)
- Rate: 100–120 compressions per minute
- Allow the chest to fully rise between compressions
If a second rescuer is available, one person can manage the airway while the other provides compressions.
4. Provide Rescue Breaths If Trained
- Give 2 breaths after every 30 compressions, ensuring the chest visibly rises.
- If you are not trained in rescue breathing, perform hands-only CPR until emergency responders arrive.
5. Use an AED When Available
An AED is safe to use on a pregnant woman.
Follow the device prompts the same way you would for any adult.
Restoring the mother’s heartbeat offers the best chance of survival for both her and the baby.
When Emergency Responders Arrive
If CPR does not restore the mother’s heartbeat within a few minutes, emergency medical teams may perform a perimortem cesarean delivery. This procedure can improve the chances of survival for both the mother and the baby by relieving pressure and restoring circulation.
Why CPR Training Matters
Knowing how to perform CPR for different situations — including pregnancy — helps you act quickly and confidently when seconds matter. Training ensures that you understand how to adapt your technique safely and effectively.
At Health Solutions of America, our online CPR and First Aid certification courses teach the essentials of adult, child, and infant CPR, along with modifications for special circumstances, including pregnancy.
Get CPR and First Aid Training Through Health Solutions of America
Being prepared could save two lives. With the right training, you can respond confidently and effectively in an emergency involving a pregnant woman.
Health Solutions of America offers flexible online CPR and First Aid certification for individuals, workplaces, and caregivers.
Contact us today to schedule training and build lifesaving skills.