Black mothers are 57 percent more likely to experience a stroke during or after pregnancy — a life-threatening disparity Riverside Partners in Women’s Health is tackling head-on through education and access to home blood pressure monitors.
Through an American Heart Association (AHA) initiative supported by a national grant to reduce hypertension-related complications during pregnancy and postpartum, Riverside received an initial supply of 300 digital blood pressure cuffs to support maternal hypertension awareness and prevention. These cuffs are now being distributed to at-risk pregnant and postpartum patients as part of a broader maternal health strategy.
“We’re seeing education in action,” said Frances Harris, R.N., High Risk Pregnancy Manager at Riverside Partners in Women’s Health. “Whether it’s providing free blood pressure cuff or offering one-on-one education during an office visit, we’re guiding new and expecting moms on how to self-monitor their blood pressure at home—empowering them with knowledge and helping prevent life-threatening complications.”
To support these ongoing efforts, Riverside has launched a new educational video that teaches patients how to check their blood pressure safely and accurately at home. The video walks viewers through how to use an upper arm monitor, when to take readings, and what those numbers mean — particularly in the weeks after childbirth when the risk of stroke can remain high.
This effort is part of a larger, integrated approach to improving maternal outcomes. When a patient receives a blood pressure cuff from one of Riverside’s Partners in Women’s Health, Riverside Maternal Fetal Medicine, or upon discharge from Riverside Regional Medical Center, they are also enrolled in a digital care plan through MyChart’s Care Companion. The platform provides personalized daily reminders to check blood pressure, log readings, and offers guidance when follow-up is needed based on those readings. This proactive approach keeps patients engaged in their care beyond the office visit or hospital stay.
“This initiative is about more than access—it’s about equipping mothers with the knowledge and tools they need to protect their health during one of the most vulnerable times in their lives,” said Julianne Rowe, Director for Riverside Partners in Women’s Health. “We’re proud to lead efforts that put actionable, life-saving education directly into the hands of our patients.”
Since the initiative launched in the spring of 2024, Riverside has begun distributing blood pressure cuffs and continues to provide education and support to patients as part of its ongoing effort to improve maternal health outcomes.
“This initiative embodies our mission to be a relentless force for longer, healthier lives. Every mother should have access to both education, resources and tools such as blood pressure cuffs. Making sure these individuals are healthy and supported in their journey of creating life is a top priority and we are grateful that this initiative does just that,” said Briana Ricks, Community Impact Director, American Heart Association Hampton Roads.
This work is part of a broader commitment to maternal health, targeting underserved and disproportionately impacted populations. By providing accessible, culturally relevant resources, Riverside and the American Heart Association are working to improve outcomes where they are most needed.
Learn more about Riverside Partners in Women’s Health who can be your guide throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care by visiting riversideonline.com/womenshealth.