I Thought I Was in the Clear... Then I Was Back in the Hospital

8 days after my 3rd child was born, I found myself right back in the hospital.

Because my blood pressure had crept up 6 years prior during my 2nd pregnancy, my doctors monitored me closely this time around and placed me on preventative aspirin. I did everything right — took my meds, had a smooth early induction, and was discharged from the hospital with a BP 110/70. We were settling into life as a family of 5, and I was so happy to be home for my daughter’s 1st day of kindergarten to get her on and off the bus!

I was completely lost in that postpartum fog, exhausted and soaking up every second with my newborn, while brushing off a persistent headache as normal recovery.

Between my own gut feeling that something wasn't right and my husband asking, "Have you checked your blood pressure lately?", I finally pulled out my BP cuff. (Fortunately, I had one at home). When the monitor flashed dangerously high (193/118), I assumed it was broken until my husband and mom tested theirBPs and got normal readings.

I called the hospital and was told to come in immediately. I was fortunate that my mom was still in town to stay with the kids, giving me the support and peace of mind knowing my family was safe while I left to get myself taken care of. Michael drove straight to the Labor & Delivery area of the hospital and I was admitted for severe postpartum preeclampsia. Spending the night alone (Michael went home to help my mom with the 2 older girls and newborn) on a terrifying magnesium drip that made my eyes cross was overwhelming.

Now, 4 years postpartum, I carry that experience with me not just as a survivor, but as a healthcare provider. I routinely treat women who were completely healthy, only to face life-threatening preeclampsia near the end or weeks after birth. With maternal health so heavily in the news, we cannot ignore that preeclampsia remains a leading cause of maternal mortality — and recent research reminds us that delivery isn't an automatic cure.

I got the care I needed because I listened to my body, had a support system that paid attention, and we took action. In that overwhelming postpartum season, having a home monitor, a strong village, and the courage to advocate for yourself truly changes everything.