After a complicated pregnancy, first time mum Nicole Clewes welcomed daughter Eloise earlier than expected due to pre-eclampsia (high blood pressure).
However, the complications of pre-eclampsia have now left Nicole with an increased risk of developing heart disease in the future.
Nicole’s pregnancy was closely monitored due to her type 1 diabetes. She endured morning sickness and unexplained bleeding throughout, but at her 36-week check-up, her situation took a serious turn.
“It was my birthday when I went in for my scan at Lyell McEwin Hospital (LMH) and I was told I wasn’t going home. I needed to be induced as I had high blood pressure and decrease foetal movements,” Nicole explained.
“I laboured for two days and ended up needing an emergency caesarean and after two long days, I gave birth to my daughter Eloise.”
At six months postpartum the LMH midwives referred Nicole to the COFFEE* Clinic which assesses and educates women who have experienced a serious complication during pregnancy.
“I had no idea I was at risk of heart disease, so it was very interesting learning this at the clinic,” Nicole said.
“The team discussed things that I could do to lower my risk of heart disease such as lifestyle factors like my nutrition and exercise. It was nice to chat about these things in a safe space with no judgement.
“Knowledge is power and I’m glad I was referred to the COFFEE Clinic. I’ve learnt a lot about heart disease – things I had no idea about.”
Nicole began implementing the suggested changes and had another follow up at 18 months postpartum. Here, she met with Dr Emily Aldridge, who is investigating the cardiometabolic risk factors after a complicated pregnancy.
“I met with Dr Aldridge and was invited to be a part of her consumer group,” Nicole said.
“My goal is to help educate women on the risks if they do have a complicated pregnancy and encourage these women to join the clinic.”
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*COFFEE is an abbreviation of ‘Cardiovascular assessment after Obstetric complications: Followup For Education and Evaluation’
