(WISH) -- A new study from Sweden suggests that having a sister who experienced a complicated pregnancy can increase a woman's risk of developing heart disease by nearly 40%.

The study highlights the long-term health implications of pregnancy complications, not only for the women who experience them but also for their sisters.

Dr. Laxmi Mehta, a cardiologist, emphasized the importance of understanding these risks. "For all women, before getting pregnant, should be meeting with their family doctor or their gynecologist."

Pregnancy causes significant changes in a woman's body, including variations in heart rate, which can have lasting effects. According to the National Institutes of Health, women who have complicated pregnancies are more likely to develop heart disease later in life, particularly if they are obese. Mehta noted that pregnancy-related conditions can have long-term impacts, affecting women well after childbirth. Health experts recommend that women consult with their health care team, including a cardiologist, to receive preventive treatments and lifestyle counseling. Maintaining a heart-healthy diet before, during, and after pregnancy is crucial, which includes limiting salt intake and minimizing processed foods and added sugars.

Understanding the familial risk factors associated with complicated pregnancies can help women take proactive steps to safeguard their heart health.