Women dying from complications related to pregnancy and childbirth can be prevented.
Every year in Pennsylvania, women die from complications related to pregnancy and childbirth. This is maternal mortality. Many of these deaths are preventable. Learning and becoming aware of signs and symptoms that concern your health and taking action are important.
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control) has created a helpful tool that can assist. The CDC’s Hear Her® campaign addresses this urgent public health challenge with one simple but powerful call to action: listen. Listening to women when they say something doesn’t feel right – and acting quickly – can save lives. Everyone – partners, friends, family, and healthcare providers – has a role to play in preventing tragedy.
These symptoms can be a sign of a life-threatening condition. This list is not meant to cover every symptom you might have. If you feel like something just isn’t right, or you aren’t sure if it’s serious, talk to your health care provider straight away. Be sure to tell them if you are pregnant or were pregnant within the last year, and be persistent.
Ask your partner, family members, and friends to go with you to visit a health care provider and help you ask questions. They can also help support you with any follow-up care. The CDC offers a useful guide to help you talk to your health care provider.