How You Can HELLP is weekly series on A Grande Life where real women share their HELLP stories to educate other women and families.

In 2008, I was diagnosed with HELLP syndrome at 35 weeks. It was something we had never heard about before and I was my OB’s first patient with HELLP. Thankfully, they caught it early after I advocated for myself. I knew something was wrong!

If you have had HELLP Syndrome, I encourage you to share your story. You might save a life doing so. 

Share your story!

What is HELLP?

According to preeclampsia.org HELLP stands for hemolysis, (which is the breaking down of red blood cells), elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count. HELLP syndrome can be difficult to diagnose, especially when high blood pressure and protein in the urine aren’t present. Its symptoms are sometimes mistaken for gastritis, flu, acute hepatitis, gall bladder disease, or other conditions. 

The global mortality rate of HELLP syndrome has been reported to be as high as 25%. That’s why it’s critical for expecting mothers to be aware of the condition and its symptoms so they can receive early diagnosis and treatment.

To support these HELLP Syndrome stories, please sign up for our weekly newsletter. You will receive an email each Saturday featuring that week’s HELLP story. The more we spread the word about HELLP, the more people will know and understand!