How Preeclampsia United Two Strangers

A bottle of medicine and some pills on top of a page.


May is Preeclampsia Awareness Month, which brings both sadness and joy. It is the second most common cause of maternal death, but gratefully we are a lot closer to understanding what causes it, which means we will be closer to finding a cure.

A few months ago, I was on a social media platform of a support group for pregnant women who were sharing their feelings and concerns about their high-risk condition. While I was trying to remain unobtrusive, one woman’s story was compelling. With her permission, I have included our online conversation to demonstrate that small acts of kindness can result in huge dividends for all.

Dr. Linda

Hi E – I couldn’t respond to you because they turned off the comments. I’m a member of ACOG (American College of OB GYN). Could you share your city and insurance company? Are you pregnant now? I will try to find a resource for you. While the Society of MFM is a start, it’s always good to get a personal reference if possible. Thanks for reaching out.

 

Elaine (name changed)

Thanks for responding. I am currently in [redacted] is my zip if that helps. My insurance is [redacted].  I read about this doctor in my area was hoping to call him on Monday

 

Dr. Linda

He sounds like he’s very involved in research but hopefully he is a clinician as well, meaning he still practices medicine and takes care of patients. Are you pregnant or trying to conceive? I wasn’t clear about that. Once you contact him, let me know what you think. Pregnant women are my passion. I wrote a prenatal book, it’s dated but it just demonstrates I’m serious about pregnant women. Feel free to reach out to me at any time.

 

Elaine

Geez I didn’t even think that he might just be into research and not see patients.  Lol I suppose I have pregnancy brain at the moment. I’m 13 weeks. It’s been a LONG LONG LONG 13 weeks. I saw my OB this past week and even she looked scared lol when I left she said to me that she wants me to find a specialist because she feels my situation is too advanced for her. ????????â€â™€â€ I had my son in 2016 he was born at 34 weeks we had an emergency csection.  I felt like I did so much research during my first pregnancy and no class I took or anything I read prepared me for what I was up against.

Dr. Linda

Okay, the first thing I want you to do is stay calm. Do I have your permission to try to find a resource for you? You need to be managed by a high risk ob and I’m surprised your present OB didn’t admit you into the hospital for [redacted.}

You have a great hospital in your community. [redacted] has a great reputation. You might want to contact their OB-GYN dept and ask whether they could recommend a high risk OB Department.  They have a referral service opened from 7A to 7P. Here’s the link: [redacted]

Elaine

Thank you! Yes [redacted] is great I’m so grateful for this hospital they saved my life and my sons. I have another appointment with my practice this upcoming week.

 

March 1, 2020

Dr. Linda

Thanks for sharing. I reached out to some colleagues and have two names of high-risk specialists you might consider calling. I do not know them personal but they are both affiliated with [redacted] and they are women. (1) Dr. [redacted] and (2) Dr. [redacted]. Your pregnancy is complicated but not impossible to treat.Elaine

Thank you so much I will contact them on Monday and see if I can get in. I really appreciate you looking those drs up.

 

Mar 13, 2020

Elaine

Just wanted to say thank you I saw  Dr [redacted] yesterday and I am feeling so much better about this pregnancy! They are taking me on as a patient in their practice. I just wanted to thank u again for your help and advice! Send me the link to your Dr. Linda Facebook page I’d like to follow it.

Dr. Linda

I am so very happy for you and truly appreciate you giving me an update.

Elaine

Yes absolutely! You can use my name is u want! I am beyond grateful for ur kindness and also for your help!

 

…..

Follow Dr. Linda on Facebook | Order your copy of The Smart Mother’s Guide to a Better Pregnancy: How to Minimize Risks, Avoid Complications, and Have a Healthy Baby | Dr. Linda is a board certified Ob/Gyn and an expert in the area of pre-eclampsia and high-risk pregnancies. Contact Dr. Linda about an appearance at your next event or media placement opportunities.

Copyright thesmartmothersguide.com. Duplicating this content in entirety without written permission is expressly forbidden.

Related Post

Do not assume everything is okay if you have labs drawn and

Abnormal vaginal bleeding warrants immediate attention, and proper clinical management. The two