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MyBlue®:

Pregnancy

From prenatal to postpartum, your benefits are designed to support you through each stage of your pregnancy.

Working together to improve maternal health

Pregnancy and childbirth complications in the U.S. have increased among all women by 9% between 2018 and 2020. What’s more, Black, Latina and Asian women continue to fare worse than White women when it comes to the likelihood of complications. That’s why we’re committed to helping reduce maternal health disparities by making sure pregnant individuals, new parents and babies get the support they need during every stage of pregnancy—and beyond.

Expectant mother and young girl sitting on a couch

Urgent Maternal Warning Signs

These urgent maternal warning signs and symptoms can occur during pregnancy—and in the year after delivery. Get immediate medical care if you experience any of the following signs or symptoms. For more guidance and resources, check out the CDC’s Hear Her campaign.

Fever of 100.4ºF or higher

Headache that won’t go away
or gets worse over time

Dizziness or fainting

Changes in your vision

Extreme swelling of your hands
or face

Chest pain or fast-beating heart

Thoughts of harming yourself or your baby

Trouble breathing

Severe nausea and throwing up

Severe belly pain that doesn’t
go away

Baby’s movement stopping or
slowing during pregnancy

Severe swelling, redness or pain of
your leg or arm

Vaginal bleeding or fluid leaking
during pregnancy

Heavy vaginal bleeding or discharge after pregnancy

Overwhelming tiredness

Pay attention to your body

Pregnancy is full of many physical and emotional changes, but remember to always listen to your body. Talk to your doctor if something doesn’t feel right. And if you feel that your needs are not being met, it’s more than okay to find a different doctor. It’s important to have a maternity care team you can trust before, during and after your pregnancy.

Female doctor and expectant mother talking in an exam room

Establish at-home support

From friends to extended family members, you’ll find those you’re closest with are eager to help. A good support system not only helps your new baby—it also helps yourself. Raising a child in a caring and supportive environment helps them be successful socially and academically.

Man and expectant mother looking at a sonogram

Your Emotional Needs are Important, Too

Baby Blues

Giving birth unlocks a cascade of emotions. During this time, it is common to experience what’s called “baby blues.” This can include mood swings, anxiety and trouble sleeping. Typically, the baby blues go away within two weeks. It’s important to practice sharing your feelings and leaning on your support system for help.

Postpartum depression

Postpartum depression is depression that occurs after having a baby. Symptoms are more intense and longer lasting than those of “baby blues.” If you experience severe mood swings, loss of appetite, overwhelming fatigue and feelings of joylessness after childbirth, you may have postpartum depression. Talk to your doctor if you think you might be depressed, or if you have trouble caring for your baby or completing daily tasks, or you have thoughts of harming yourself or your baby.

Three ways to get help now

911

Call 911 if the situation is potentially life-threatening

988 Suicide & Crisis Hotline

Call or text 988
Chat at 988lifeline.org

 

24/7 National Maternal Mental Health Hotline

Call or text 1-833-9-HELP4MOMS 1-833-943-5746