finding an internist, postpartum?

[expert@preeclampsia.org]

As a result of the thread regarding thyroid levels, I am considering changing internists. Is there such a creature as an IM doc who specializes in aftercare for Pre-eclampsia? If there is, how do I go about finding one. I live in Chicago.

If there isn't, what would be a good strategy for finding one and working with him/her to ensure I am cared for appropriate to my previous health history? (Severe HELLP with 1st, milder, later onset labile BP's with 2nd...delivered much earlier in the symptom "continuum").

I have no known underlying disorders according to the MFM I consulted with in my second pregnancy. GIven my history and current good health I fully expect most doctors to give me a clean bill of health and send me on my way, but my gut says I need to pay closer attention than most to preventive care and I really would like to find a doctor who understands the emerging nature of pre-e research, especially wrt aftercare...

[expert@preeclampsia.org]

Most individuals I know in relation to medical disorders during pregnancy or preeclampsia are subspecialists, and I presume [you are] looking for a general internist. I do not know any in the Chicago area that fit the requested description. However, there is a North American Society of Obstetric medicine, and I believe they have a website. One might query them through the internet about Chicago area physicians. Second, Chicago is a large city. For instance one would not wish someone in the North or West to go down to U of Chicago if another center were nearby.

The major thing for any internist to know about post preeclampsia patients is it is a risk marker for future cardiovascular or metabolic disorders. (Actually most post preeclamptics do not develop remote disease, it is just they have a higher incidence. Thus any internist should check more frequently for signs of developing hypertension, carbohydrate intolerance, and now possibly hypothyroidism. Some would suggest life style modifications including diet, exercise, ideal weight status etc, as healthy lifestyles may prevent or delay the occurrence of remote cardiovascular disease.