8 DECEMBER 2024IN MY OPINIONDr. Janice Krystal Ascencio holds the position of Acting Chairperson of the Obstetrics and Gynecology department and serves as the Director of the OB/GYN ambulatory Clinics at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center. With over two decades of dedicated practice, Dr. Ascencio is recognized for her profound dedication to women's health and empowerment. She specializes in minimally invasive gynecological procedures while providing comprehensive obstetrical care. Her passion for educating women about their bodies and promoting health literacy underscores her commitment to elevating women's well-being.Through this article, Dr. Janice Krystal Ascencio addresses the often-overlooked link between pregnancy complications and long-term cardiovascular risks for women. She emphasizes the importance of comprehensive postpartum care and advocates for increased awareness among healthcare providers and patients alike. Dr. Ascencio discusses the need for standardized follow-up protocols, regular cardiovascular screenings, and innovative care models like group visits to empower women to manage their health beyond pregnancy.In the landscape of women's health, pregnancy is often seen as a temporary journey with a clear endpoint: the birth of a child. However, for many women, the implications of pregnancy extend far beyond the delivery room. Complications such as chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, diabetes, preterm birth and stillbirth are not just temporary hurdles; they are harbingers of long-term cardiovascular risks. The lack of awareness among both physicians and patients exacerbates this problem, THE HIDDEN CARDIOVASCULAR THREAT POST-PREGNANCY: A CALL FOR COMPREHENSIVE CAREBy J. Krystal Ascencio, Acting Chairperson of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jamaica HospitalJ. Krystal Ascencio
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