The holidays are in full swing, and if I were to guess, it’s the moms in the family who do a lot to make the magic happen.
What I did for love
When I was pregnant, the whole focus of my many, many doctor appointments was the baby. Many expectant mothers go without food they enjoy (I remember no soft cheese or sushi), medicine that generally helps them (some women go without depression medications), exercise that make them feel good (kick boxing is generally out of the question). Then those who are fortunate enough to give birth are known forever more as “so and so’s Mom.” These sacrifices and identity and focus shifts are all a normal part of motherhood. But it’s also important to recognize that certain medical conditions that occur during pregnancy can be red flag for health issues after pregnancy. So, Moms, we have to save some focus for ourselves.
We did what we had to do
If you had these conditions in pregnancy, here is what you should know.
Studies have found that women with hypertensive disorders during pregnancy (i.e. pre-eclampsia and high blood pressure) are at increased risk for nearly every cardiovascular health condition (ie chronic high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, heart failure and stroke). For example, these women are:
- More likely to have coronary artery disease 7 years earlier than other women who have not a family history of the disease;
- Twice as likely to experience a heart attack not due to a blockage of arteries.
In addition, women diagnosed with gestational diabetes are about 10x more likely to be diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes compared to women without a history.
Can’t forget won’t regret what I did for love
What you must do
- Make sure your primary doctor knows about any and all conditions you had during pregnancy.
- Ask your doctor whether they think frequent or comprehensive screening for diabetes or heart disease is something to consider for you.
- This one we mention a lot at Care Answered for brain and heart health. I know you have everyone else pulling you for attention, but you need to focus on yourself in order to be there for others. Take some basic steps like following a heart healthy diet, engaging in physical activity, managing stress and getting enough sleep.
Care Answered’s mission is to access the best care for our clients while giving their loved ones peace of mind, and empowering all patients.
Ladies, consider yourselves now further empowered! And know that taking care of yourself is the best present you can give to those who love you.
If you want help advocating at your doctor’s appointment, Care Answered is here. Contact us: Nicole@careanswered.com or call 516-584-2007
*Do you know the musical or song of the subheadings of this article? Let me know at nicole@careanswered.com.*