We don’t think of women dying in childbirth anymore in this nation. But in fact, 700 women do die giving birth every year in the United States and 50,000 more experience severe, unexpected health problems related to pregnancy.
In response to these facts, the Center for Disease Control has started a campaign “Hear Her.” The initiative is based on listening to women when they share something isn’t right. We at McKeen & Associates have seen devastating consequences when a pregnant or post-partum woman’s complaints are not taken seriously and treated quickly.
Some of the urgent warning signs to watch out for during pregnancy and in the year after delivery include:
· Persistent or worsening headache
· Dizziness or fainting
· Vision changes
· High fever
· Extreme swelling of hands or face
· Thoughts of harming yourself or baby
· Breathing trouble
· Chest pain or rapid heartbeat
· Nausea and/or belly pain
· And more
Women know their own bodies better than anyone and we encourage partners, friends, coworkers and healthcare providers to listen and act quickly when something is wrong.
