Episode 7: Surviving Postpartum Preeclampsia: Colleen’s Journey and Lessons for New Mothers
One mother’s rare but harrowing encounter with postpartum preeclampsia highlights crucial warning signs and the value of self-advocacy
A Diagnosis Few Anticipate
Colleen’s experience with postpartum preeclampsia began unexpectedly. Although preeclampsia during pregnancy is a well-known risk, its postpartum variant is far rarer and often overlooked. Six days after delivering her first child, Colleen noticed her vision blurring and her foot swelling intensifying. She struggled just to walk. A severe headache, easily attributed to sleep deprivation, persisted through medication. However, recalling the preeclampsia handout given to her at discharge, Colleen wisely decided to check her blood pressure at home. The numbers were alarming: 180/110.
Rushed to the Hospital
Her swift arrival at the ER led to a diagnosis of postpartum preeclampsia with severe features. Medical staff administered IV medications and a 24-hour magnesium sulfate drip to lower her blood pressure and prevent seizures. She was confined to her hospital bed, attached to a catheter and compression devices. The medical team explained the cause of her intense headache: swelling in the brain, a dangerous sign.
The Emotional Cost
Colleen’s experience was not just physically demanding; it brought a heavy emotional toll. She was separated from her newborn, unable to bond in the way she had hoped. After being discharged, anxiety and intrusive thoughts dominated her days. She measured her blood pressure obsessively and imagined worst-case scenarios—seizures, strokes, her baby in distress with no one to help. Her anxieties were compounded by guilt over missed bonding moments and the overwhelming responsibility of new motherhood.
Crucial Support Systems
Through these challenges, Colleen relied on key supports: her veteran nurse mother, who urged her to seek emergency care, and her attentive husband, who shared her burdens. Therapy eventually helped her process the trauma and manage postpartum anxiety. These supports, combined with her growing self-advocacy skills, proved vital for recovery.
A Second Chance: Advocacy and Preparedness
Determined to avoid her previous ordeal, Colleen approached her second pregnancy with caution and preparation. She switched providers, choosing a doctor who listened, tested, and was responsive throughout her pregnancy. When postpartum preeclampsia recurred—this time just three hours after delivery—it was caught early, treated swiftly, and never reached the severity of her first experience. Colleen’s willingness to advocate for herself and plan ahead made a significant difference.
Lessons for New Mothers
Colleen’s journey underscores several key lessons:
- Trust intuition—the “gut feeling” that something isn’t right
- Monitor blood pressure at home after birth, especially if symptoms arise
- Contact healthcare providers immediately if experiencing severe headaches, vision changes, or significant swelling
- Embrace self-advocacy; mothers are their own best advocates
- Build a support system and don’t hesitate to seek help
Moving Forward and Raising Awareness
Colleen’s story, while unique, is a powerful reminder for expectant and new mothers: postpartum preeclampsia is rare but life-threatening, and prompt action can save lives. Her experience emphasizes the need for ongoing education and heightened awareness, especially since the risk persists beyond the hospital walls. Colleen is now a proud mother of two, forever changed by her ordeal, and passionate about spreading knowledge so other women recognize the warning signs and take swift action.
Every mother’s postpartum journey is different, but Colleen’s resilience and advocacy serve as an inspiration for others. Her story urges all mothers and families to honor their intuition, seek support, and never be afraid to speak up when something feels wrong.
If Colleen’s journey through postpartum preeclampsia resonated with you, or if you know someone navigating a similar experience, let’s keep the conversation going. Share your story with us or reach out on our Facebook community and Instagram @iceipodcast. Your voice matters—and together, we can spread awareness about this often misunderstood condition, offer support, and ensure that no mom feels alone.
