Postpartum complications remain a leading cause of maternal deaths in the United States, with 33 percent occurring between one week and one year after delivery, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recognizing that 60 percent of these deaths are preventable, Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC)–Murrieta, a Seventh-day Adventist medical care provider in the United States, launched a new postpartum care program to educate mothers and healthcare providers about life-threatening conditions.

Each year, about 700 women in the U.S. die from pregnancy-related complications. While maternal care often focuses on pregnancy and delivery, the postpartum period poses a higher risk for issues such as hypertension, hemorrhage, sepsis, and substance use.

“Most people don’t realize that more maternal deaths occur in the months following delivery than during childbirth,” said Jennifer Ross Clarke, MSN, director of perinatal services at LLUMC–Murrieta.

The program is part of the CDC’s Hear Her campaign, which equips new mothers with tools to recognize warning signs and seek care. Educational materials include posters in hospital bathrooms, take-home magnets, and wristbands that say, “I gave birth” to signal recent childbirth to healthcare providers.

“When a patient wearing one visits the emergency department, staff immediately know they’ve recently delivered and may require specialized care,” said Ross Clarke.

Since its launch in November, the program has already saved lives. Two postpartum patients wearing wristbands were quickly identified and treated for complications.

Addressing long-term health risks

The program also raises awareness about long-term risks tied to pregnancy. Conditions like gestational diabetes and hypertension increase the likelihood of chronic illnesses, including type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. Clarke emphasized the importance of sharing pregnancy history with primary care providers to ensure proper monitoring and follow-up care.

Expanding support for new mothers

LLUMC–Murrieta plans to collaborate with community healthcare providers to integrate postpartum care into routine primary care visits. The hospital will share educational materials and stress the importance of follow-up care to create a comprehensive support network for mothers.

“We want mothers to feel empowered to speak up about their symptoms. If something feels wrong, seek care,” said Clarke.

The original article was published on the Loma Linda University Health website.