Recognizing that the weeks following childbirth can bring serious and sometimes life-threatening health risks, Ascension Wisconsin launched a Post-Birth Alert Program on October 1.
Through the program, every mother who delivers at an Ascension Wisconsin hospital will now receive an orange wristband to wear for at least six weeks after birth. The bracelet serves as a visible alert for medical teams, signaling that the patient has recently given birth and may be at risk for complications such as blood clots, hemorrhage, sepsis or cardiomyopathy.
“By recognizing pregnancy and delivery complications early, many postpartum deaths can be prevented,” said Dr. Steven Bush, MD, MPH, Medical Director, Women and Families Service Line, Ascension Wisconsin. “These wristbands provide a simple but powerful signal, helping emergency responders and clinicians act quickly and deliver the right care when it matters most.”
According to the CDC, most pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. While maternal deaths are rare, too many women in the U.S. still lose their lives to complications after pregnancy. Early recognition of warning signs, timely diagnosis and quality care are key to saving lives.
Warning signs that require immediate medical attention include:
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As part of this initiative, Ascension Wisconsin is partnering with local first responders to ensure they recognize the bracelets and respond quickly to potential postpartum emergencies. Patients also receive education on warning signs and health risks at their 36-week prenatal appointment and again after delivery. Before leaving the hospital, each mother is given her wristband along with clear instructions on how and why to wear it.
Ascension Wisconsin’s dedicated care teams are proud to implement this program helping to safeguard mothers and strengthen the health of the community.
