HELLP
NURTURE INFORMATION HUB
Evidence
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0531513105000154
Mariëlle van Pampus
Very little attention has been paid to the psychological consequences of severe pre-eclampsia or HELLP syndrome. In most serious cases the baby has to be delivered by caesarean section early preterm. Unexpected complications around a delivery increase the risk of developing post traumaticpost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Education
When HELLP syndrome happens during pregnancy, it always resolves after delivery. You may have needed to deliver your baby early.
What happens as you recover from HELLP syndrome?
You will probably start to get better within a few days after delivery. But in some cases, it can take longer. This is especially true if you've had a serious problem due to HELLP, such as bleeding. Your doctor or midwife will closely monitor your recovery.
After having HELLP syndrome, you are at high risk for problems during future pregnancies. Make sure that your doctor or midwife knows about this part of your health history. You'll need to be checked often during and after any pregnancy.
It is recommended that you see your general practitioner yearly for blood pressure checks after a pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome. You should also aim to maintain a healthy weight and exercise regularly to reduce your chance of developing high blood pressure later in life.
Empowerment
Women who have gone through tough pregnancies, like those with severe preeclampsia, eclampsia, or HELLP syndrome, may be more likely to experience PTSD or post-pregnancy mental health issues than women without these complications.
Be Patient: Healing takes time, and everyone recovers at their own pace. If you are finding it hard, it's important to get professional support. What helps you feel better might not work for your partner or other family members, and that’s okay. Healing doesn’t mean you’ll never feel sad or hurt when thinking about your pregnancy, but over time, you can grow stronger and more confident in dealing with these feelings.
Get Professional Support: It’s important to talk to someone who understands what you’ve been through. A mental health professional who specialises in pregnancy complications and loss can help you make sense of your experience and find ways to cope. Whether you’re grieving the loss of a baby, dealing with your health challenges, or feeling disappointed by how your pregnancy went, they can guide you toward feeling better and managing life again.
Understand Your Pregnancy Experience: Talk to your health care team to better understand the medical and emotional parts of your experience. If needed, ask to speak with a specialist who can review your medical history and help you understand what happened.
Useful Links
For When - Perinatal Depression & Anxiety Helpline
1300 24 23 22
https://www.forwhenhelpline.org.au
COPE – Centre for Perinatal Excellence
https://www.cope.org.au/getting-help/e-cope-directory/
Panda - Perinatal Mental Health
The Woman’s Royal Hospital -Victoria
Pre-eclampsia Foundation
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Confirmation Content
Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances. To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].
Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances.To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].
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