A New Beginning

Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women

in the first year after childbirth.

Heart Disease

POSITIVE LIFESTYLE CHANGES Ways to lower your risks: • Eat a heart-healthy diet • Get regular check-ups • Stay at a healthy weight — lose weight if needed • Exercise • Know your family’s medical history • Don’t smoke • Limit alcohol • Get plenty of rest • Know your numbers — blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol • Manage your health, especially if you have diabetes, high blood pressure or another condition • Tell your primary medical provider about any pregnancy complications you had • Discuss any medical conditions with your OB provider prior to getting pregnant again

You are at higher risk for heart disease if you had 1 of these complications during your pregnancy:

African American, Caucasian, or Hispanic women with any of the following are at higher risk for developing heart disease

• High blood pressure — either before or during your pregnancy • High blood pressure in addition to delivering before 37 weeks • Obesity (BMI of 30 or higher) • Delivered before 37 weeks • Diabetes — including gestational diabetes • Over 40 years old • History of heart problems • Smoking • Drinking too much alcohol • Unhealthy diet

50

A New Beginning