Cedars-Sinai Medical Center has launched a postpartum blood pressure monitoring program aimed at improving care for women after childbirth. The initiative, developed by maternal-fetal medicine specialists, addresses the risks associated with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, such as preeclampsia, which are leading causes of serious complications and hospital readmissions following delivery.
“The postpartum period is a vulnerable time for patients with pregnancy-related hypertension, and too often it’s when care becomes fragmented,” said Sonya Fabricant, MD, maternal-fetal medicine fellow at Cedars-Sinai and leader of the program. “This program was designed to provide structure, continuity and support when patients return home and still need close follow-up.”
Nearly 500 women have participated in the Postpartum Hypertension Program. Each received a blood pressure cuff to use at home and recorded their readings through a secure patient portal connected to their electronic medical record. This system allows healthcare teams to monitor results promptly and intervene if necessary.
“Our program isn’t just about numbers,” Fabricant said. “It’s about making sure patients understand what their blood pressure readings mean, feel supported and know someone is paying attention and ready to intervene if needed.”
The program also aims to strengthen long-term cardiovascular follow-up. Within the Cedars-Sinai system, 72% of participants had a physician visit within six months after giving birth. Additionally, 83% followed up with a specialist by one year.
“Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are not limited to pregnancy itself—they are an early marker of future cardiovascular risk,” said Sarah J. Kilpatrick, MD, PhD, chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Cedars-Sinai who oversaw the creation of the monitoring initiative. “Programs like this help ensure patients stay connected to care and prioritize their own health after childbirth when mothers are more likely to focus on the newborn and their families.”
Patient feedback has been positive regarding emotional wellbeing during recovery from childbirth. Surveys indicated that many participants felt less anxious after leaving the hospital and more confident managing their blood pressure independently.
“What we heard repeatedly from patients was how reassuring it was to know their blood pressure was being closely followed during a stressful time,” Fabricant said. “That reassurance helped many patients stay engaged in their care during early postpartum recovery.”
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center is located in Los Angeles, California. Founded in 1902, it serves as both a treatment center—with over 50,000 admissions reported in its 2022 annual report—and as a training hospital under president Thomas M. Priselac.
More information can be found on Cedars-Sinai Stories and Insights: A High-Risk Pregnancy Lifeline.
