Preeclampsia: More Than Just High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy (It's Preeclampsia Awareness Month!)

Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information about preeclampsia and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any medical conditions.   

Pregnancy is often envisioned as a time of glowing health and joyful anticipation. While this is true for many, it's crucial to be aware of potential complications that can arise. One such condition, preeclampsia, affects a significant number of pregnancies and requires careful monitoring and management. And as we observe Preeclampsia Awareness Month, it's the perfect time to shed light on this important health concern.

So, what exactly is preeclampsia? At its core, it's a condition characterized by high blood pressure and proteinuria (protein in the urine) that typically develops after the 20th week of pregnancy. However, in some cases, it can occur earlier in pregnancy or even in the postpartum period. But preeclampsia is more complex than just elevated blood pressure. It's a disorder of the placenta, the vital organ that nourishes your baby. When the placenta doesn't function properly, it can lead to a cascade of effects on the mother's body.

Maggie and her Doula client talking about birth options.

Beyond Blood Pressure and Protein: Understanding the Symptoms

While high blood pressure is a key indicator, many women with preeclampsia may not initially experience noticeable symptoms. This is why regular prenatal checkups are so important! However, as the condition progresses, some women may develop:

• Severe headaches: These can be persistent and debilitating.

• Changes in vision: Blurred vision, flashing lights, or temporary loss of sight are warning signs.

• Upper right abdominal pain: This can sometimes be mistaken for heartburn but can be a sign of liver involvement.

• Nausea and vomiting: Especially if it occurs later in pregnancy and is severe.

• Swelling (edema): While some swelling is normal in pregnancy, sudden or excessive swelling, particularly in the face and hands, can be concerning.

• Shortness of breath: This could indicate fluid buildup in the lungs.

• Sudden weight gain: Rapid weight gain unrelated to diet can be a sign of fluid retention.

  
  

Who is at Risk?

While preeclampsia can affect any pregnant woman, certain factors can increase the risk, including:

• First pregnancy

• Multiples pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.)

• Pre-existing high blood pressure or kidney disease

• Family history of preeclampsia

• Obesity

• Age over 40

• In vitro fertilization (IVF) pregnancy

• Certain medical conditions like lupus or diabetes

Why is Preeclampsia a Concern?

Preeclampsia can pose serious risks to both the mother and the baby. For the mother, potential complications include:

• Eclampsia: Seizures that can be life-threatening.

• HELLP syndrome: A severe form of preeclampsia involving hemolysis (breakdown of red blood cells), elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count.

• Stroke

• Organ damage (kidneys, liver, brain)

• Placental abruption: The placenta detaching from the uterine wall prematurely.

• Future cardiovascular disease

For the baby, preeclampsia can lead to:

• Premature birth: Often necessary to protect the mother's health.

• Low birth weight

• Fetal growth restriction

• Stillbirth

Diagnosis and Management

Preeclampsia is typically diagnosed through regular prenatal checkups that include blood pressure monitoring and urine tests. If preeclampsia is suspected, your healthcare provider will likely order further tests to assess the severity of the condition and monitor both your and your baby's well-being.

Management strategies depend on the severity of preeclampsia and how far along the pregnancy is. Options may include:

• Close monitoring: Frequent blood pressure checks, urine tests, and fetal monitoring.

• Medications: To lower blood pressure and prevent seizures.

• Induction of labor and delivery: Often the definitive treatment, especially if the pregnancy is near term or if the condition is severe.

• Magnesium sulfate: Administered intravenously to prevent seizures.

The Importance of Awareness and Prenatal Care (Especially During Preeclampsia Awareness Month!)

The good news is that with early detection and proper management, the risks associated with preeclampsia can be significantly reduced. Attending all your prenatal appointments is crucial. During Preeclampsia Awareness Month, let's amplify the message about the importance of regular checkups and open communication with your healthcare provider. Don't hesitate to report any unusual symptoms, even if you're unsure if they're significant.

Being informed about preeclampsia empowers you to be an active participant in your pregnancy care. While it can be a scary diagnosis, remember that your healthcare team is there to support you and ensure the best possible outcome for you and your baby. Let's use this Preeclampsia Awareness Month to educate ourselves and others.

Have you had experiences with preeclampsia? Share your story in the comments below to help and support others! Let's build a community of awareness and support this month and beyond.

Disclaimer: This blog post provides general information about preeclampsia and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any medical conditions.   

Citations:

• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. (2020). Preeclampsia and High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/preeclampsia-and-high-blood-pressure-during-pregnancy   

• Mayo Clinic. (2023). Preeclampsia. https://www.google.com/search?q=https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/preeclampsia/symptoms-causes/syc-20376701

• Preeclampsia Foundation. (n.d.). About Preeclampsia. https://www.google.com/search?q=https://www.preeclampsia.org/about-preeclampsia