What is pre-eclampsia? (Introduction)

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy condition with new high blood pressure after about 20 weeks, often with protein in the urine or signs that organs such as the liver, kidneys or brain are under strain. It can affect the mother and the baby, and it needs medical care.

Why it matters

Pre-eclampsia is a leading cause of serious illness in pregnancy worldwide. Left untreated, it can progress to eclampsia (seizures), stroke, liver or kidney damage, bleeding problems and placental abruption. It can also slow the baby's growth and lead to preterm birth.

How common is it

About 2 to 8 percent of pregnancies are affected. It usually appears after 20 weeks, most often in the third trimester, and can also appear in the days after delivery.

Who is more at risk

First pregnancy, twins, age over 35 or under 18, obesity, previous pre-eclampsia, chronic high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease and family history.

What is the only cure

Delivery of the baby and placenta. Treatment before that aims to protect the mother and give the baby as much time as is safe.

Ayurvedic view (interpretive)

Ayurveda describes swelling, headache and raised pressure in pregnancy under imbalances of Vata and Pitta, but it has no recognised equivalent of this condition. Traditional views do not replace blood pressure monitoring.

When to get help

Go to hospital immediately for severe headache, blurred vision or flashing lights, pain in the upper right belly, sudden swelling of face or hands, vomiting, breathlessness, reduced baby movements or a fit. Call 112 or 102.

Remember

Regular antenatal blood pressure checks find pre-eclampsia early. Do not wait if warning signs appear.