Moms talk pregnancy problem at blood drive

A blood drive that will take place Friday (April 3) is designed to put the focus on a potentially life-threatening condition that can happen during pregnancy.

The blood drive will be held from 1 to 7 p.m. at the headquarters for LifeSource, 5505 Pearl St., Rosemont.

It aims to educate the public on placenta accreta. When the obstetric condition occurs, the placenta attaches too deeply into the wall of the uterus, prompting the placenta to draw blood from nearby organs. About one in 2,500 pregnancies result in this, according to the American Pregnancy Association. When it happens, it can cause the mother to hemorrhage.

Four Chicago area moms who went through placenta accreta and benefited from donations approached Lifesource about hosting this drive with the intention of not only increasing the blood supply but also letting others know more about the condition. Two of them are scheduled to be at the event to talk about their experiences as well as hand out pamphlets about the condition.

While walk-ins are possible, appointments are encouraged. Contact LifeSource at (877) 543-3768 or visit the website here (use the code 346D).