Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related condition characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to organs, typically the liver and kidneys. It usually begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women whose blood pressure had previously been normal. Left untreated, it can lead to serious—even fatal—complications for both mother and baby.
Why Is It Important to Know About Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia affects 5–8% of all pregnancies and is a leading cause of maternal and fetal morbidity worldwide. Early detection and proper management are key to reducing risks. Understanding this condition helps in timely diagnosis and care.
If you’re in early pregnancy, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms and blood pressure. To get started, use our Pregnancy Calculator to know your current week of pregnancy.
Common Symptoms of Preeclampsia
Recognizing the signs of preeclampsia can save lives. Here are the most common symptoms:
- High blood pressure (140/90 mmHg or higher)
- Swelling in the face, hands, and feet (edema)
- Sudden weight gain (more than 2 kg in a week)
- Severe headaches
- Vision problems (blurred vision, sensitivity to light, or temporary loss of vision)
- Nausea or vomiting (especially later in pregnancy)
- Upper abdominal pain, usually under the ribs on the right side
- Decreased urine output
If you are experiencing any of these, consult your healthcare provider immediately. You may also read about early Pregnancy Symptoms to differentiate normal pregnancy changes from signs of preeclampsia.
What Causes Preeclampsia?
The exact cause of preeclampsia is unknown, but it’s believed to begin in the placenta. Factors may include:
- Poor blood flow to the placenta
- Immune system responses
- Genetic factors
- Existing health conditions (chronic hypertension, kidney disease, diabetes)
You are more likely to develop preeclampsia if you:
- Are pregnant for the first time
- Have a history of preeclampsia
- Are carrying multiples (twins, triplets)
- Are over 35 years old
- Are overweight or obese
- Have autoimmune disorders
How Is Preeclampsia Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Regular blood pressure checks
- Urine tests (to detect proteinuria)
- Blood tests (to check liver and kidney function, platelet count)
- Fetal ultrasound (to check the baby’s growth)
- Non-stress test (to monitor fetal heart rate)
Your gynecologist may suggest hospitalization if the condition becomes severe.
Risks to Mother and Baby
To the Mother:
- Seizures (eclampsia)
- Stroke
- HELLP syndrome (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelet count)
- Organ failure
Risks to the Baby:
- Low birth weight
- Preterm birth
- Stillbirth
- Placental abruption (placenta detaches from the uterus prematurely)
Early diagnosis and delivery are the most effective treatments. For early pregnancy guidance, visit our Pregnancy Advice page.
Managing Preeclampsia
Management depends on how far along you are and how severe the condition is. Strategies may include:
- Monitoring: Frequent prenatal visits, blood tests, and ultrasounds
- Medications: Blood pressure-lowering drugs, corticosteroids to improve fetal lung maturity, anticonvulsants
- Hospitalization: In severe cases, close monitoring in a hospital setting is necessary
- Delivery: The only cure is delivering the baby. Timing is critical and often based on balancing the health of both mother and baby.
Preventing Preeclampsia
While preeclampsia can’t always be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:
- Attending regular prenatal checkups
- Managing existing health conditions (like hypertension or diabetes)
- Eating a healthy, balanced diet
- Staying active with doctor-approved exercise
- Monitoring your weight and blood pressure
- Taking low-dose aspirin (if recommended by your doctor)
For better understanding of your pregnancy timeline, calculate your due date using our Pregnancy Calculator.
When to Seek Emergency Help
Seek immediate medical help if you experience:
- Persistent severe headache
- Vision changes
- Sharp abdominal pain
- Sudden swelling
- Difficulty breathing
These may indicate progression to eclampsia, a life-threatening condition.
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- What is my risk of preeclampsia?
- How often should I monitor my blood pressure?
- Are there any lifestyle changes I should make?
- What happens if I develop preeclampsia before term?
- What symptoms should I watch for at home?
Real Stories: Moms Who Faced Preeclampsia
Reading about real-life experiences helps build awareness and support. Many women have successfully managed preeclampsia through early diagnosis, proper care, and emotional support.
Tools and Resources for Pregnant Moms
- Pregnancy Calculator: Know your current week, due date, and baby’s size.
- Pregnancy Test Guide: Understand when and how to test for pregnancy.
- Pregnancy Advice: Tips for every stage of your pregnancy.
- Pregnancy Symptoms: Track what’s normal and what’s not.
Preeclampsia is serious, but with the right care and early action, both you and your baby can stay safe. Never ignore warning signs. Use tools like our Pregnancy Calculator and Symptom Tracker to stay informed. And always follow your doctor’s guidance.
Remember: Know. Care. Prepare. 💗
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