Moms That Have Had HELLP

Hey J.,
I don't have a ton of time today, and I could write a book!
I actually didn't develope HELPS syndrome, But I did have severe preeclampsia 3 times. I developed it at 28 weeks the first time, 34.5 the second time and 34 the third time. I now am pregnant with my 4th, so we'll see how it goes. My doctor advised against this pregnancy, but that is another long story. I have a good friend who has had HELPS... She delivered emergency c-section at 31 weeks and has had 2 more babies since. The second one was about 35 weeks and he was never convinced that there was an actual HELPS diagnosis. With her third one I think was also delivered around 35 weeks, no real complications - the doctors just watched us both like hawks and you will also be in the same boat. Make sure you doc is as worried for you as you are and at the same time will support you through this whole time. - it takes the stress off. I will start to be seen twice a week starting around 25 weeks or so, I assume you will be much earlier than that. You will need to have those NST/AFI's weekly or biweekly pretty early. Read up on it, and get some good knowledge, it will calm your fears. Here is a web site I go to for some answers... http://www.preeclampsia.org/index.asp
My only other advice would be to avoid too many stories of other women... ESPECIALLY the bad ending ones. It will only hurt you emotionaly, and can NOT help this pregnancy at all.
Please feel free to email me if you have any other questions... I have to run to a baby shower now...
C.

Look up information on the "Brewer's Diet". Starting early to try to eliminate preeclampsia or HELLP would be wise. Also keep in mind how much that stress pays a factor in the development of these conditions. Stress is hard to get away from, but do what you can now to sipmlify your life. Good luck!

Hi,

My first was born due to severe pre eclampsia at 33wks. My second pregnancy went to 42wks! I found this information very helpful (and I read A TON of info) It is a PDF document that opens up, quite lenghty, very informative, from the maternitywise website.
http://www.childbirthconnection.org/pdfs/gecpc3ch15.pdf

I had the same condition and delivered my son early via emergency C-section. I never worried about it happening again, I guess because my doctors had no concern about it. Of course, if/when I do get pregnant again I will be cautious. My thoughts are with you; wishing you a healthy and safe pregnancy and delivery!