The Warning Signs of Maternal Health: Protecting you and your baby
Motherhood is a journey that is not without risk for both the mother and the baby. It is extremely important to have a support system that will ensure both parties are happy and healthy. Risks of pregnancy, labor, and delivery are well-known, but postpartum risks are lesser known, but these can happen up to a year after delivery has occurred. Some of these risks are deadly. The Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health compiled an important list of maternal warning signs for expectant mothers. To test your knowledge before reading the list, take the Urgent Maternal Warning Signs Quiz online.
If you experience any of the symptoms listed below, seek medical care immediately, as this could indicate a life-threatening issue.
Headache that won’t go away or gets worse over time
Dizziness or Fainting
Changes in your vision
Fever of 100.4°F or higher
Extreme swelling of your hands or face
Thoughts about harming yourself or your baby
Trouble breathing
Chest pain or fast-beating heart
Severe nausea and throwing up
Severe belly pain that doesn’t go away
Baby’s movement stopping or slowing during pregnancy
Vaginal bleeding or fluid leaking during pregnancy
Vaginal bleeding or discharge after pregnancy
Severe swelling, redness or pain of your leg or arm
Overwhelming tiredness
Click here to view the detailed list of symptoms. For tips on speaking to your provider about these concerns, click here.
Resources
Click here for Arizona-based breastfeeding resources or call the 24-Hour Breastfeeding Hotline at 1-800-833-4642