Pregnancy and stroke….

By Sheri Muska, Stroke Coordinator at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Fort Worth

Typically, when we think of individuals who are at high risk for having a stroke, we think of the elderly. According to a recent article published by the Centers for Disease Control (2011), hospitalization for pregnancy related strokes and “mini strokes” has increased approximately 54 percent between 1994 and 2007.  This research also showed that pregnant and post partum women ages 25 to 34 were hospitalized most often.

What could be causing such an alarming increase in this population?  One thought is that more of these pregnant women are obese and suffering from high blood pressure and heart disease. Preparing for the arrival of a new “little one” can be stressful; making sure the nursery is perfect, worries over whether they will be a good mother, how will the arrival of the baby affect their lives, and just praying the baby will be healthy.  It is also believed that many new mothers are so focused on their new infants and making sure they are well cared for that they forget to take care for themselves.

Health professionals suggest that you make an appointment with your doctor prior to becoming pregnant to see if you have any risk factors for stroke.  It is important to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle prior to and during pregnancy.