12/08/2025
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Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by new-onset high blood pressure (hypertension) and often, but not always, the presence of protein in the urine (proteinuria) after the 20th week of pregnancy. It can also involve other organ damage, such as to the kidneys or liver.
Preeclampsia can be dangerous for both the pregnant person and the developing fetus.
Key aspects of preeclampsia:
Hypertension: A significant increase in blood pressure is a hallmark of preeclampsia.
Proteinuria: The presence of excess protein in the urine suggests kidney damage.
Organ Damage: Besides kidney damage, preeclampsia can also affect other organs like the liver, brain, and blood.
Timing: Preeclampsia usually develops after the 20th week of pregnancy, but it can also occur postpartum (after delivery), most often within 48 hours.
Severity: Preeclampsia can range in severity, with some cases progressing to eclampsia, which involves seizures or coma.
Why is preeclampsia a concern?
Maternal Risks:
Preeclampsia can lead to serious complications for the pregnant person, including kidney or liver failure, stroke, and even death.
Fetal Risks:
Preeclampsia can restrict fetal growth, increase the risk of premature birth, and in severe cases, lead to stillbirth or neonatal death.
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. Regular prenatal checkups, including blood pressure monitoring and urine tests, are essential to detect preeclampsia early and manage it effectively. Treatment options may include medications to lower blood pressure, corticosteroids to help fetal lung development, and, in severe cases, delivery of the baby.
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