Bump Day
Celebrate National Bump Day July 20th
Access to good prenatal care is key to good maternal outcomes, but sadly, access is not the same for every birthing person, which is completely unacceptable. So as a way to shed light on this issue, the What to Expect Foundation established #BumpDay to raise awareness about the need for safe, high-quality maternal health care for all birthing people. #BumpDay also encourages elected officials to do more to support safe pregnancies and healthy babies.
Warning Signs
Some common pregnancy complications you should be aware of include:
High blood pressure: High blood pressure during your pregnancy can affect the development of your placenta and create problems getting the nutrients and oxygen to your baby. This can cause an earlier-than-expected delivery, low birth weight, placental separation (abruption), and other complications for your baby.
Preeclampsia: This serious pregnancy complication happens when you experience high blood pressure, high protein levels in urine (this may indicate damage to your kidneys), or other signs of organ damage. Pre-eclampsia usually begins after the 20th of pregnancy but can also happen in the weeks after giving birth. Preeclampsia can cause severe or even fatal problems for you and your baby when not treated.
Gestational Diabetes: This type of diabetes develops when blood sugar levels get too high. During pregnancy, your hormones can interfere with how insulin (the hormone that regulates the body’s metabolism of fats and carbs) works and prevents your body from managing your blood sugar effectively. When left unmanaged, the high sugar level in your blood can damage your nerves, vessels, and organs. Gestational diabetes usually appears between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy.
Call your doctor immediately if you have any concerns during your pregnancy. If a problem is found, follow your healthcare provider’s advice about treatment. This will increase your chances of having a safe delivery and a strong, healthy baby.
Spread the Word #BumpDay
Access to good prenatal care is key to good maternal outcomes, but sadly, access is not the same for every birthing person, which is completely unacceptable. So as a way to shed light on this issue, the What to Expect Foundation established #BumpDay to raise awareness about the need for safe, high-quality maternal health care for all birthing people. #BumpDay also encourages elected officials to do more to support safe pregnancies and healthy babies.
With #BumpDay falling on July 20th this year, here are a few ways that you can help share information about maternal health inequities:
Go to Twitter or Instagram and post a pregnancy photo of yourself (past or present) or someone you love with the hashtag #BumpDay. Be sure to include why you’re sharing your bump and tag @whattoexpect and @whattoexpectproject.
Tag three friends on your socials (Twitter or Instagram) and ask them to share a bump photo.
Head over to the What to Expect Project website and email your elected officials urging them to support the Helping MOMS Act, aimed at increasing access to lifesaving postpartum care.
Maternal Health Care for all
Pregnancy should be a joyous occasion for all. The excitement shouldn’t be overshadowed because a birthing family doesn’t have access to resources they deserve because they can’t pay or the color of their skin. By participating in #BumpDay activities, you help to inform others about the importance of a healthcare system that ensures equal access to healthy pregnancies and safe deliveries.
Blog Writer: Janelle King
Blog Reviewer: Sheila LaFortune
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