Are You Expecting?
Things to Know from AAIMM Experts:

What is preeclampsia/postpartum eclampsia? 

Preeclampsia/postpartum preeclampsia is a serious disease related to high blood pressure.  Preeclampsia can happen to anyone during the second half of pregnancy (2nd trimester 13-27 weeks), or up to six weeks after delivery. 

Signs and symptoms of preeclampsia: 

• Headache that doesn’t go away
• Changes in vision (blurriness, flashing lights, seeing spots)
• Trouble breathing 
• Severe nausea or vomiting 
• Rapid weight gain 
• Swelling in legs, hands, or face

Source: LA County CPSP Team Handout on Preeclampsia, March of Dimes, and Preeclampsia Foundation

How can I monitor my own blood pressure? 

• Get checked during each provider visit
• Purchase a blood pressure monitor (upper arm cuff) from local pharmacy and/or online

When should I use low dose aspirin?

Low dose aspirin should be taken by those who are at high risk of preeclampsia. It should be started between 12-28 weeks of pregnancy, ideally before 16 weeks and continued daily until delivery. 

You may be at risk of preeclampsia if you are pregnant with multiples (twins, triplets, etc.) OR if you have any of the following:

• History of preeclampsia
• Renal (kidney) disease 
• Autoimmune disease 
• Type 1 or 2 diabetes 
• Chronic hypertension 

Source: American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists

How do I know when I shouldn’t go home when the hospital is telling me I can?

If you’re experiencing the following while at the hospital, you should remain there until the symptoms have been resolved and addressed with a medical professional:  

• Stomach Pain 
• Feeling Nauseous/Throwing Up
• Headache 
• Seeing Spots
• Swelling in your hands, face, and feet 

 If you feel the hospital is not addressing your symptoms – you can request a hospital patient advocate to support you during this time.

What is postpartum hemorrhage?

High blood pressure can lead to postpartum hemorrhage also called PPH. Postpartum Hemorrhage is when a person has heavy bleeding after giving birth. It’s a rare condition, but serious. It can happen within 1 day after giving birth, and up to 12 weeks after having a baby. 

Normal postpartum bleeding is called Lochia and lasts roughly 6 weeks, transitioning from bright red to white discharge. Postpartum bleeding is a mixture of blood, mucus, and tissue from the uterus. Period bleeding is shedding of the uterine lining, which occurs once the menstrual cycle resumes.  

Source: March of Dimes