On Maternal Health Awareness Day, leaders from RWJBarnabas Health’s nine birthing hospitals highlighted key warning signs that can signal life-threatening complications for mothers during and after pregnancy. The initiative aims to educate patients about symptoms that require immediate medical attention.
Suzanne Spernal, Senior Vice President of Women’s Services at RWJBarnabas Health, emphasized the system’s commitment: “At our health system, protecting mothers’ lives is a top priority. We follow evidence-based safety practices, train for emergencies, and listen to our patients. Every mother deserves safe, respectful, high-quality care—before, during, and after pregnancy.”
Robert Graebe, Chair and Program Director of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Monmouth Medical Center, warned about postpartum bleeding: “After delivery, some bleeding is expected—but soaking a pad in an hour, passing large clots, or feeling lightheaded is not normal. Heavy bleeding can become life-threatening very quickly. If this happens, call your OB provider or go to the emergency room immediately. Trust your body and act fast.”
Todd J. Rosen from Jersey City Medical Center addressed headaches and vision changes: “Severe headaches, blurry vision, or seeing spots—especially during pregnancy or after delivery—can signal dangerously high blood pressure. These symptoms should never be ignored. Early treatment can prevent serious complications like stroke or seizures. If you notice these signs, seek care right away.”
Abu S. Alam of Trinitas Regional Medical Center explained that shortness of breath may indicate more than anxiety: “Sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, or a racing heartbeat may be signs of a blood clot or heart problem. These symptoms are not just stress or anxiety—and they can happen during pregnancy or postpartum. If breathing feels hard or painful, call 911 or go to the emergency room.”
Gerardo Lopez at Community Medical Center discussed fevers after birth: “A fever of 100.4 or higher after delivery may be a sign of infection. This can include uterine infections, wound infections, or breast infections. Prompt treatment matters. If you have fever, chills, or worsening pain, contact your care team immediately.”
Richard C. Miller from Cooperman Barnabas Medical Center pointed out concerns with swelling: “Some swelling during pregnancy is expected—but sudden swelling of the face, hands, or around the eyes is not. When swelling comes with headaches, nausea, or vision changes it can signal a serious condition. Please don’t wait—call your provider or seek care.”
Archana Pradhan at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital spoke on mental health: “Feeling overwhelmed anxious hopeless or disconnected from your baby is not a personal failure—it’s a medical condition Postpartum depression and anxiety are common temporary and treatable If your mood is affecting your daily life please reach out Getting help is a sign of strength”
George Tweddel at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset reminded new mothers about ongoing risks after childbirth: “The weeks after birth—often called the fourth trimester—are one of the highest-risk times for mothers Many serious complications happen after hospital discharge Keep your postpartum appointments and call if symptoms worsen We are here for you well beyond delivery day”
Khalid Sawaged at Newark Beth Israel Medical Center encouraged women to trust their instincts: “If something doesn’t feel right trust that feeling You know your body better than anyone else Never worry about overreacting or bothering your care team Calling early can prevent emergencies Your concerns matter”
Meena Devalla at Clara Maass Medical Center noted dizziness as another important warning sign: “Feeling dizzy or faint is especially worrisome if it happens at or after 16 weeks of your pregnancy or in the first few weeks after you give birth and you also have headache blurred vision slurred speech fast heartbeat chest pain or shortness of breath or vaginal bleeding Dizziness and lightheadedness may be a warning sign of other problems including preeclampsia”
The campaign reflects ongoing efforts by RWJBarnabas Health to improve maternal outcomes through patient education and prompt response to potential emergencies.
