Expectant women typically do what they can to have a healthy pregnancy and rely on their physicians to help them carry their baby to term. Unfortunate conditions like preeclampsia may develop regardless of any precautions taken, putting both the mother and baby at risk.
Proper prenatal care includes monitoring pregnant mothers to identify any potential issues as early as possible. Medical providers should be able to recommend treatments for dangers that arise in utero. So, what can parents do when they receive negligent care?
Examinations and symptoms
Although you may not be symptomatic, tell your provider about any swelling you notice in your hands, legs and feet. Be sure to advocate your yourself if you experience:
- Dizziness
- Breathing trouble
- Vision changes
High blood pressure may also signify preeclampsia. Since this could affect you at any point during your pregnancy, your provider should make note of and investigate any pressure increases during your prenatal appointments.
Complicated treatment
Your provider may suggest taking calcium supplements or low-dose aspirin to treat mild preeclampsia. Bed rest, steroid injections and magnesium injections may also be prescribed after a preeclampsia diagnosis.
However, the only cure for the condition is giving birth. This can present an extremely difficult decision for parents-to-be and their OB-GYN if matters escalate before the baby is fully developed.
An emergency cesarean section may save your baby from life-threatening complications if you’re around 37 weeks along. You can anticipate some relief during the next one to six weeks after delivery.
Doctor responsibilities and patient rights
Getting proper prenatal care is vital for the health of yourself and your baby. Your doctor should provide an appropriate level of care to help bring your baby to term as smoothly as possible.
Recommendations can vary by situation, so you might not get the answers you want if pregnancy complications arise. However, you have every right to receive the care you deserve.