Education

The best way to solve a problem is to know and understand the issue at hand. HELLP syndrome's acronym is broken down in the following way:

H- hemolysis (the breakdown of red blood cells)
EL- elevated liver enzymes (liver function)
LP- low platelets counts (platelets help the blood clot)

Of those that experience HELLP syndrome, it is prevalent in about 70% of cases during the third trimester and about 30% of cases it occurs within 48 hours of delivery. The mortality rate of women with HELLP syndrome is 0 to 24%, with a postnatal death rate of up to 37%.

Symptoms can include:
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting that continues to get worse
• Indigestion with pain after eating
• Upper right abdominal/chest pain or tenderness
• Fatigue
• Blurred vision
• Sudden weight gain
• Swelling, especially in the face and hands
• Seizures
• Pain in the upper right part of your belly
• Nosebleed
• Bleeding that does not stop as quickly as usual
• Shoulder pain or pain when breathing deeply

If you or an expecting mother experiences any of these symptoms, take them seriously. They can potentially lead to a misdiagnosis, be sure to work with your physician and advocate for the health of you and your baby.

We help to educate not only expecting mothers but everyone. It is important to understand symptoms you may experience, understand your health, and be in partnership with your health care provider to ensure the health and safety of mom and baby.