Coping with HELLP Syndrome after Delivery

Like eclampsia and other forms of pre-eclampsia, HELLP syndrome can occur
without warning following the birth of a child. This can be quite frightening for a new
mother and her family, as the mothers body can begin shutting down with
devastating speed, but the illness need not cause permanent damage when
managed properly.
Post-Delivery Onset
Post-partum preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome can be quite confusing when they
occur, as delivery or abortion of the baby is considered to be the treatment for
these diseases. The first 48 hours after delivery are generally the most dangerous,
and intensive care may be necessary to support a womans body until her organs
begin functioning properly again. However, symptoms can occur as many as six
weeks after delivery. Late occurrences like this can be dangerous, as many women
will dismiss indicators like edema and headaches as simple post-delivery fatigue.
Immediate Response
HELLP syndrome involves an autoimmune response to the conditions of pregnancy,
and a womans body should begin to regulate itself properly once the hormones
signaling pregnancy have ceased production. However, this hormonal shift is not
immediate; once an afflicted woman has given birth, she should be monitored
within an ICU for 24-48 hours after labor to ensure that complications do not arise.
HELLP syndrome can be a serious and life-threatening condition, and should not be
taken lightly even if delivery occurs without incident.
Possible Complications
Any number of complications may require immediate intervention in cases of postpartum HELLP syndrome. Renal failure will require dialysis, and in most cases the
damage to the red blood cells of the patient must be remedied via a blood
transfusion. If the liver ruptures, surgical intervention may be required. Intravenous
sulfate has been shown to have a beneficial effect in some cases, and medications
to reduce blood pressure may help with the risk of stroke and blood clots.
Recovery Prognosis
Death rates among women who develop post-partum HELLP syndrome are low, but
the disease can be extremely physically traumatic, and it may take as many as
three months for patients to recover. Women recovering from preeclampsia should
take steps to curb and control any underlying hypertensive issues, and may
continue taking antihypertensive or corticosteroid medications if necessary.

Caring for an Infant after HELLP

Any birth is physically traumatic, but women recovering from HELLP may wish to
seek out extra support when it comes to caring for their new babies. Some
premature infants will spend the first few months of their lives in the ICU on a
ventilator, but those healthy enough to go home before then will require all of a new
moms energy and care. In these cases, it may be helpful to hire a doula or
registered nurse to help nurture the new mom while she recovers from the stress of
her illness.
HELLP syndrome after delivery can be even more stressful and frightening than the
pre-birth form of the illness, as it is often unexpected and sudden. However, with
proper medical care and adequate recovery time, almost all mothers will recover
within a few weeks or months, and will soon be home with their new babies.

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