Adele Darlington, a 41-year-old from Warrington, required 65 units of blood and blood products to survive massive bleeding caused by placenta previa during childbirth. After losing 15 liters of blood, Adele underwent extensive surgery, including a hysterectomy, to save her life. A year later, she expresses gratitude to blood donors and highlights the importance of blood donations, especially during the challenging Christmas period when stocks are low.
A woman shares her harrowing experiences with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) during both of her childbirths, emphasizing the importance of advocating for oneself and being informed about potential complications. Despite reassurances from her medical team, she faced life-threatening situations due to retained placental tissue and had to undergo emergency procedures. Her story highlights the need for better awareness and management of PPH, which is a leading cause of maternal death globally. She urges other women to trust their instincts, communicate concerns to their doctors, and ensure they receive proper care, potentially saving their own lives.
Governor Kathy Hochul of New York has proposed a series of initiatives aimed at combating the maternal health crisis in the state, including a groundbreaking plan to offer paid leave for prenatal care. This initiative, part of a six-point plan, seeks to address the disproportionately high rates of maternal and infant mortality, particularly among Black women. The plan also includes eliminating co-pays for pregnancy services, expanding access to doulas, training for maternal mental health, and providing free cribs for low-income parents. The proposal requires the support of the state legislature and is part of Hochul's broader State of the State priorities.
