May is preeclampsia awareness month AND women’s health month. So let’s dive into what preeclampsia is.
Preeclampsia presents in 5-8% of pregnancies, after 20 weeks. It is a condition that ONLY happens during pregnancy or postpartum. It is a condition that involves persistent high blood pressure and protein in the urine, which can lead to a condition called HELLP if not managed and treated appropriately. Preeclampsia can also involve development of decreased blood platelets, trouble with the kidneys or liver, fluid in the lungs, seizures and visual disturbances.
Research is unfortunately not clear around what causes preeclampsia, or what can prevent it. It is thought to be related to the placenta and a problem with blood vessels supplying the placenta. It is thought that the paternal factor influences whether preeclampsia will develop.
Treatment typically involves induction of labor if currently pregnant, medications to manage in postpartum.
This is a serious condition if not addressed promptly. Knowing the warning signs can help.
Common signs of preeclampsia include:
- Intense headache
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Changes in or blurred vision
- Rapid weight gain (>5# in a week)
- Severe swelling (hands/face)
- Stomach pain
- Shoulder pain (referred pain)
We don’t have any strong evidence on preventing preeclampsia but optimizing your health for the best pregnancy possible is always a good idea. Some recommendations for reducing risk of preeclampsia are:
- Stay well hydrated
- Avoid medications/supplements not safe during pregnancy
- Take a prenatal vitamin
- Meet or exceed exercise guidelines
- Eat a diet low in processed foods
- Improve sleep quality + quantity
Moms are still at risk for high blood pressure (and preeclampsia) up to 6 weeks after delivery. There is growing research that preeclampsia can have lasting effects on someone’s health — especially heart disease, stroke and hypertension. If you have had preeclampsia during pregnancy or postpartum, it may be important to emphasize lifestyle factors that decrease rates of these conditions.
Check out resources at preeclampsia.org
Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or want support in preparing for or recovering from birth. Women deserve more support.
With peace and love,
Dr. Ellyn Halley, DC, Doula, Coach
Doc Halley Solutions
Follow me on Instagram + TikTok for more content - ellynhalley.dc
Mother's Day Specials:
I’m running two specials for the month of May in honor of Mother’s Day! One deal is for my pregnant ladies specifically, the other deal is for any woman looking to work on her nutrition, fitness, and overall health! This includes my postpartum rebuild program.
Empowered Pregnancy Program - A fully digital birth prep course, combined with a fitness program + nutrition support. Everything you need for a healthy pregnancy, an empowered birth, and a smooth postpartum. Includes multiple resources to educate yourself AND your birth support team, in addition to direct support from me! You can get your first month of this program for $15! The details: - Birth education + prep course (with resources you keep) - Templated fitness + mobility program - Pelvic prep throughout - Nutrition resources - Postpartum guide (Vaginal or Cesarean) - Postpartum rehab template program
1:1 coaching - Get 6 months of coaching for the cost of 5 months! Working with me one on one is great for any woman who needs accountability and holistic support. I support you on exercise, nutrition, and pelvic health rehab if needed. This comes with a ton of resources and monthly video check ins.
I am offering in person chiropractic care! You can find me at 1500 Green Bay St, La Crosse WI 54601 within the same space as the Parenting Place and The Motus Project. I am excited to be offering in person care again to women in the Coulee Region, and will be offering hybrid care - in person + online. You can book your first appointment or schedule a consult below!
Looking for more support around exercise, pelvic health, and nutrition (and birth prep if you're pregnant!)? Apply for coaching with me:
My next birth education workshop with Meghan Tomlinson (Rooted Birth Photography) is Sunday June 1st, 2025 10am-3pm, at O'Brien Physical Therapy in La Crosse, WI.
Register here
**Disclaimer: The content in this email is not intended to be medical advice. The content here is for informational purposes only. Please consult with your healthcare provider regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options.
