Women can develop serious health issues during and after pregnancy, such as high blood pressure, blood clots, and hemorrhaging. Know the signs of each of these conditions and what you should do about them.
High blood pressure and pre‑eclampsia
Monitoring your blood pressure is important during pregnancy. High blood pressure is common, and you should talk with your doctor if you notice it is high while checking it at home. High blood pressure can lead to a serious condition called pre‑eclampsia, which can cause seizure, stroke, organ failure, and even death for the mother and baby.
Seek medical attention if you have symptoms such as:
- Severe headaches
- Swollen hands, feet, legs, or face
- Blurred vision or temporary blindness
- Trouble breathing
- Severe abdominal pain
Blood clots and hemorrhaging
After giving birth, women can be at risk for developing life‑threatening blood clots and excessive blood loss called hemorrhaging. Talk to your doctor about the risks, symptoms, and things you can do to help prevent these serious conditions.
