Maternal Health Initiative 2023

During the snowstorm of 2021 my daughter decided to make her appearance, in grand fashion I might add. Two weeks after her birth, I developed a dull headache in the back of my head that lasted for 3 days.

 When I was at my breaking point, I decided to take my blood pressure using the cuff I obtained to check my blood pressure prior to pregnancy. During the 2nd and 3rd trimester of my pregnancy, my blood pressure was perfect! And before I left the hospital it was normal. I was sure that my blood pressure would be fine. To my surprise, my blood pressure was 173/116.

 I was teetering on the edge of possibly having a stroke. Scared and shaking, my husband walked through the door to see the expression of fear and confusion on my face. I told him the numbers, unsure what they meant, he agreed and encouraged me to go to the ER.

 I texted my Texas Health OB, using the MyChart app, and let her know what was happening. Arriving at the check-in counter, I gave my Blood Pressure numbers and informed the staff of my issue. Recognizing that I had just gave birth, the team jumped into action. Later I was admitted into the hospital and treated for about 3 days for postpartum pre-eclampsia.

 I often reflect on how things would have been if I did not have the Blood Pressure cuff. Having the Blood Pressure monitor gave me the information I needed to make a vital decision.  My hope is to provide this device to Texas mothers,  so they have the tools needed to make fast life saving decisions.