Marfan syndrome is a connective tissue disorder that causes visual and cardiac defects and a distinct long, slender body type. In Marfan syndrome with aortic vessel involvement, the root of the aorta is dilated or weakened, increasing the risk of aortic dissection and aortic rupture. Increases in blood volume and cardiac workload that occur during pregnancy may worsen aortic root dilation and further increase the risk of aortic dissection/rupture. Pregnancy in clients with Marfan syndrome, especially those with aortic root dilation, poses a high risk of maternal mortality. Clients should be instructed about the importance of consistently using reliable birth control methods to prevent pregnancy (Option 3).

(Option 1) Beta blockers are commonly used to treat clients with Marfan syndrome to limit aortic root dilation. Such medications are generally safe to use during pregnancy, so the client should not discontinue therapy unless directed to do so by the health care provider.

(Option 2) Clients with Marfan syndrome considering pregnancy should be counseled to complete childbearing in early adulthood because aortic root dilation and the risk of aortic dissection/rupture increase with time.

(Option 4) Marfan syndrome is an autosomal dominant condition with a 50% chance of inheritance in offspring.