Molly Tripp, a faculty member at ECU’s College of Health and Human Performance, recently returned home from ECU Health with her newborn son, Owen, healthy and thriving. Her journey, however, was not without its challenges.
Earlier this year, Tripp participated in East Carolina University’s active moms studies, advocating for exercise during pregnancy as beneficial for both mothers and babies. During one session, she experienced a sudden spike in high blood pressure, leading her to the emergency department. Expecting a brief visit, Tripp instead remained under care for a week until Owen was delivered via successful caesarean section on February 11, much earlier than the expected May due date.
Reflecting on the experience, Tripp acknowledged the fearfulness of the events but emphasized their necessity for the safety of both herself and Owen. “He was able to grow inside a little bit longer, and they could stabilize my blood pressure as much as possible,” she said during a recent interview at the ECU Fitness, Instruction, Testing and Training Facility.
Tripp, who was diagnosed with preeclampsia with severe features, credits the exercise study for Owen’s health despite spending months in the neonatal intensive care unit. “He was a really good size for his gestational age, so I think a lot of that can be attributed to lifestyle factors, including physical activity,” Tripp noted.
Dr. Linda May, a prominent researcher overseeing ECU’s active moms program, highlighted the protective benefits of exercise during pregnancy. “Exercise is protective, so it actually helps prevent and improve outcomes, rather than cause any damage,” May affirmed.
Tripp, now a staunch advocate for the study, expressed gratitude for the support and care she received. “My situation was handled with a lot of grace. Everybody remained so calm,” she said, praising the team at ECU Health for their seamless coordination.
Looking ahead, Tripp plans to use her experience to benefit her students. “I now have this experience as an example for my class here at ECU,” she explained. “It will be helpful in explaining some of the material the students learn in class.”
For researchers like Dr. May and others leading pregnancy research at ECU, the goal remains clear: to ensure all babies are born healthy and on time. “Regardless of the scenario,” May emphasized, “our aim is for all babies to have a strong start in life.”
Tripp’s journey, from crisis to celebration, serves as a testament to the importance of research and care in ensuring the well-being of both mothers and babies.
