What Is Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related condition in which a mother develops high blood pressure after 20 weeks of pregnancy, usually around the end of the fifth month or later. Along with raised blood pressure, protein is often detected in the urine, which confirms the diagnosis of classical preeclampsia.
Most commonly, preeclampsia is seen after 28 weeks of pregnancy, but in some women, it can appear as early as 20 weeks.
It is important to note that pre-existing high blood pressure before pregnancy is not called preeclampsia. That condition is known as chronic hypertension.
How Common Is Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia affects around 5–10% of women, especially during their first pregnancy, though it can also occur in second or third pregnancies. Since it can cause serious complications for both mother and baby, careful monitoring is crucial.
Why Is Preeclampsia Dangerous?
If not detected or managed in time, preeclampsia can have harmful effects on both the mother and the baby.
Effects on the Baby
-
Reduced blood flow through the placenta
-
Poor supply of oxygen and nutrients
-
Fetal growth restriction
-
Low amniotic fluid levels (oligohydramnios)
Effects on the Mother
-
Persistently high blood pressure
-
Risk of placental abruption (sudden bleeding from the placenta)
-
Risk of eclampsia, which involves seizures and can be life-threatening
Eclampsia is the most severe complication and occurs when preeclampsia is not controlled or diagnosed in time.
Who Is at Higher Risk of Preeclampsia?
Certain factors increase the risk of developing preeclampsia, including:
-
High body mass index (BMI) or obesity
-
Very low body weight
-
Age below 20 years or above 35 years
-
History of preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy
-
First pregnancy
Women with these risk factors require closer monitoring throughout pregnancy.
How Is Preeclampsia Diagnosed?
Doctors maintain a high index of suspicion in high-risk mothers. Screening can begin early in pregnancy.
At around 12–13 weeks, when the double marker test is done to screen for chromosomal abnormalities like Down syndrome, preeclampsia screening can also be performed. This helps identify women who are at high risk even before symptoms appear.
Regular monitoring includes:
-
Blood pressure checks
-
Urine tests for protein
-
Ultrasound to assess baby’s growth and amniotic fluid
Can Preeclampsia Be Prevented?
Yes, studies have shown that preeclampsia can often be prevented or its severity reduced.
For women identified as high-risk:
-
Low-dose aspirin (Ecosprin) started from the third month of pregnancy helps reduce the risk
-
Calcium supplements support blood pressure control
-
Vitamin D3 supplementation may also be beneficial
These preventive measures have been proven in international studies to lower the incidence and complications of preeclampsia.
Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
Seek immediate medical attention if you notice:
-
Sudden swelling of face or hands
-
Severe headache
-
Visual disturbances
-
Upper abdominal pain
-
Sudden rise in blood pressure
-
Decreased fetal movements
Early diagnosis can prevent serious complications.
Conclusion
Preeclampsia is a serious but manageable pregnancy condition when detected early. With timely screening, regular monitoring, and preventive treatment, most women go on to have safe deliveries and healthy babies.
If you have risk factors or concerns related to blood pressure during pregnancy, consult Dr. Archana Kankal at Momstory Nagar Road, Sahyadri Hospital for expert guidance and comprehensive maternity care.
