Causes of Eclampsia

The exact cause of eclampsia is not fully known. Doctors understand it as the end of a path that starts with pre-eclampsia, which begins in the placenta.

What seems to happen

Early in pregnancy, the blood vessels that feed the placenta do not develop as well as they should. The placenta then receives less blood, and it releases substances that affect the mother's blood vessels. This leads to high blood pressure, leaky blood vessels and strain on organs such as the kidneys, liver and brain. When the brain is affected, seizures can follow.

Who is at higher risk

• First pregnancy.
• Pre-eclampsia in a previous pregnancy, or in a mother or sister.
• Chronic high blood pressure before pregnancy.
• Diabetes, kidney disease, or autoimmune conditions such as lupus.
• Twins or multiple pregnancy.
• Age under 18 or over 35.
• Obesity.
• A long gap between pregnancies, or a new partner.
• Little or no antenatal care. This is a risk because early signs are missed.

What is not the cause

• It is not caused by anything the mother ate, by stress alone, or by a "curse" or evil eye.
• Women do not cause it by working or resting too much.
• It is not contagious.

A classical note. Ayurveda describes disorders of pregnancy such as garbhini shotha (swelling) and convulsive conditions, and links them with aggravated Vata. This is an interpretive way of describing signs. It does not explain the placenta-related cause known today and must not replace antenatal checks.

Knowing your risk factors helps your doctor plan closer checks, and in some cases start a protective medicine such as low-dose aspirin.