May is Preeclampsia Month

Pregnancy is among the most important times to make smart choices to keep you and your baby as healthy as possible. That starts by making regular visits to your doctor as soon as you find out you are pregnant.It is critical that expectant moms be seen by their health practitioners on a regular basis.  Not only do doctors want to ensure the mental and physical health of the mom but also head off any pregnancy complications including high blood pressure, gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.Preeclampsia is a serious potentially life threatening disease that affect 5-8% of all pregnancies and the number of cases is growing.  The disease involves an abnormal development of blood vessels from the mother’s uterus to the unborn baby.  This may lead to a decreased blood flow, nutrients and oxygen to the baby.  Mothers who have preeclampsia may experience a dangerous rise in blood pressure level, severe headaches and changes in vison or mental state. If left untreated, severe preeclampsia can lead to serious, perhaps fatal, complications for mother and baby. In fact, every year in Hamilton County, we lose babies due to preeclampsia.Preeclampsia is just one of the reasons that it is so important for every woman to see a doctor as soon as she finds out she is pregnant. Call 211 or visit this site to find a prenatal care provider near you. If you would like to learn more about preeclampsia and how to manage the condition, visit this website.