The Warning From a Woman Who Nearly Died From Miscarriage

Pregnancy and childbirth are supposed to be joyful experiences, but sometimes things go wrong. In the case of one woman, a miscarriage nearly proved fatal. Here is her story and the lessons we can all learn from it.

Quantifiable Examples:

• Every year, an estimated 10 to 20 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage
• According to a study by the CDC, the maternal mortality rate in the United States is higher than in many other developed countries, and has been steadily increasing since 2000
• Complications during pregnancy and childbirth are a leading cause of death among women globally, with nearly 300,000 deaths a year
• One study found that the risk of death from sepsis (a life-threatening condition caused by infection) is 7.7 times higher for women who have miscarried than for those who have not

Her Story

Kristen was thrilled to discover she was pregnant with her first child. Everything seemed to be going smoothly until she began experiencing intense cramping and bleeding at 12 weeks gestation. She rushed to the emergency room, where she was told she was having a miscarriage.

But Kristen's ordeal was far from over. Shortly after being discharged, she began experiencing fever and chills. She returned to the hospital, where doctors discovered she had a severe infection. Her condition rapidly deteriorated, and she was placed in the intensive care unit.

Kristen's husband and family were terrified as they watched her fight for her life. After several weeks of aggressive treatment, she began to recover. But the experience left her shaken and determined to raise awareness about the dangers of miscarriage and the importance of proper medical care.

The Lessons We Can Learn

1. Miscarriage is more common than many people realize, and it can be dangerous.

It's estimated that up to 20 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage, usually within the first 13 weeks. Most miscarriages are caused by genetic abnormalities in the fetus, and are not preventable. But as Kristen's experience illustrates, there can be serious complications even after a miscarriage occurs.

Women who experience heavy bleeding, fever, or severe pain after a miscarriage should seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms may be a sign of an infection, which can quickly become life-threatening if left untreated.

2. Proper medical care is essential during pregnancy and childbirth.

The United States has one of the highest rates of maternal mortality among developed countries, and the rate has been increasing in recent years. While there is no single cause for this trend, in many cases it can be attributed to inadequate medical care.

Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should seek out a healthcare provider they trust, and should not hesitate to speak up if they have concerns about their care. Regular prenatal checkups and prompt treatment of any complications can help prevent tragedies like Kristen's.

3. Women should prioritize their own health and well-being.

As Kristen's husband said in an interview with WRAL, "Women put themselves and their physical needs on the back burner because they're so focused on the baby." While it's understandable to prioritize the health of a growing fetus, it's vital for pregnant women to take care of themselves as well.

This includes getting enough rest, eating a healthy diet, and exercising safely. Women should also be aware of the signs and symptoms of complications, and should speak up if they feel their concerns are not being taken seriously.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Kristen's story is a powerful reminder that pregnancy and childbirth can be unpredictable, and that even routine medical procedures can have serious complications. But by prioritizing our own health and advocating for proper medical care, we can reduce the risks and ensure the best possible outcomes for ourselves and our babies.

If you or someone you love is experiencing a difficult pregnancy or childbirth, don't hesitate to reach out for help. With the right care and support, even the most challenging situations can have positive outcomes.