Also known as valvular incompetence or valvular insufficiency, valvular regurgitation is a condition in which blood leaks in the wrong direction because one or more of the heart’s valves is closing improperly. Valvular regurgitation may occur in any of the four valves of the heart: the aortic valve, the mitral valve, the tricuspid valve or the pulmonic valve.

In a normal heart, these valves allow blood to flow in only one direction and only at the right time during a heartbeat. Mild valvular regurgitation may not show any symptoms, but it could lead to more serious problems, such as heart failure, as the leak worsens. Therefore, regular physical checkups with one’s physician are very important. It is also important to report any unusual symptoms (e.g., fatigue, shortness of breath because these may be signs of more severe valvular regurgitation.

For women, mitral regurgitation due to mitral valve prolapse does not typically cause any problems during pregnancy. However, impairment of the heart’s left ventricle (left ventricular dysfunction) with mitral regurgitation increases maternal risks during pregnancy. Similarly, women with aortic valve regurgitation who do not have symptoms may have no cardiac health problems associated with pregnancy. Women with symptoms, however, may need to have their condition treated before becoming pregnant.

According to the American Heart Association's 2006 Heart and Stroke Statistical Update, valvular heart disease is responsible for more than 19,700 deaths each year in the United States and is a contributing factor in about 42,000 deaths. The majority of these cases involve disorders of the aortic valve (more than 50 percent) and the mitral valve. Deaths due to pulmonic and tricuspid valve disorders are much more rare.

People who have valvular regurgitation will need to take antibiotics before undergoing most types of medical procedures or surgeries, and all dental procedures – even a check-up or cleaning. Other treatments for valvular regurgitation may include medications such as ACE inhibitors, inotropes, diuretics and surgeries such as a heart valve repair or replacement.