Preeclampsia

Written by Afton Mower

The following is some important information about preeclampsia in pregnancy. I have never experienced preeclampsia myself but I have a number of friends who have and I, myself, want to understand this dangerous complication a little better.

The preeclampsia definition is: a medical condition where hypertension arises in pregnancy in association with significant amounts of protein in the urine. It can develop after 20 weeks gestation and there is no known treatment besides abortion or delivery of the placenta. Preeclampsia can also appear up to six weeks post-partum. It can be dangerous for the mother and the fetus and is the most common dangerous pregnancy complication.

Some preeclampsia signs are elevated blood pressure (the most visible), and damage to the endothelium (the layer of cells that line the blood vessels), kidneys, and liver.

Apparently, up to 10% of pregnancies will experience preeclampsia, and the biggest risk for developing it is a history of preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy. (Wikipedia)

Women I know who have had preeclampsia had no issues with high blood pressure prior to getting pregnant. During their pregnancy some had to spend a good amount of time on bedrest to keep their blood pressure down, and the risks were that they might suffer a stroke or heart attack. Some of these women had to deliver their babies prematurely in order to save their own lives, and some were able to carry to full-term on strict bedrest.

I would love to hear about your experiences with preeclampsia so that I can better relate with my friends and so other readers will have a peer group to relate to. Thanks.

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