Having a baby is one of the most exciting times in a woman's life. There's the joy and anticipation of a new life   —  and the worry about keeping yourself and your baby healthy through the pregnancy and delivery.

While most expectant and recently-delivered moms focus on the health of their babies, they can face life threatening risks and complications themselves, like pre-exlampsia, blood clots and strokes.

If you are pregnant or have delivered within the past year — or if you have a friend or family member who has — here are some symptoms that could signal a problem and require medical attention right away: 

• A headache that won't go away or gets worse over time
• Changes in vision
• Chest pain or a rapid heart rate
• Dizziness or fainting
• Fever of 100.4 degrees or higher
• Trouble breathing
• Severe swealing, redness or pain of the leg or arm

Seek medical attention immediately at your closest emergency department. Tanner Health's  emergency departments in Carrollton, Villa Rica, Bremen and Wedowee can help. Visit tanner.org/emergency-care for more information.

Maternial Health and Safety Frequently Asked Questions

What is the meaning of maternity care?

Maternity care refers to the comprehensive health services provided to women during pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period, including prenatal care and parenting classes.

What is considered maternity care?

Maternity care encompasses a wide range of services including medical checkups, nutritional advice, labor and delivery support and postnatal care.

What are the key components of maternity care?

They key components of maternity care include prenatal care, labor and delivery services, postnatal support and parenting classes.

How does maternity care differ from general healthcare?

Maternity care is specifically focused on the health and well-being of pregnant women and their babies, while general healthcare addresses a broader range of health issues for all individuals.