Can preeclampsia harm the baby?

Yes, preeclampsia can restrict blood flow to the placenta, leading to fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, and in severe cases, stillbirth. Close fetal monitoring and timely delivery when indicated help minimize these risks.

Does preeclampsia go away after delivery?

Preeclampsia typically resolves within days to weeks after delivery, but blood pressure monitoring and sometimes medication are needed in the postpartum period. In rare cases, postpartum preeclampsia can develop after delivery.

Can I get preeclampsia again in future pregnancies?

Yes, the recurrence rate is about 15–25% in subsequent pregnancies. The risk is higher if preeclampsia occurred early or was severe. Low-dose aspirin prophylaxis starting at 12 weeks in future pregnancies can reduce recurrence risk.

ReproductiveICD-10: O14Affects 3–8% of all pregnancies worldwide

Preeclampsia

Also known as: Toxemia of Pregnancy, Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension (related)

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage, most often affecting the liver and kidneys, typically developing after 20 weeks of gestation. Without treatment, it can progress to eclampsia (seizures) or HELLP syndrome, both of which are life-threatening. Delivery of the baby and placenta is the only definitive treatment, making timing of delivery a critical clinical decision.

Symptoms

High blood pressure (≥140/90 mmHg on two occasions)

Protein in the urine (proteinuria)

Severe headaches not relieved by medication

Visual disturbances (blurred vision, light sensitivity, seeing spots)

Upper abdominal pain, especially under the right ribs

Sudden weight gain and facial/hand swelling (edema)

Nausea or vomiting in the second half of pregnancy

Decreased urine output

Shortness of breath (due to fluid in the lungs)

Causes

Abnormal placental development and impaired blood vessel remodeling
Placental factors releasing substances causing systemic vascular dysfunction
Immune and inflammatory factors
Genetic predisposition

Risk Factors

First pregnancy (nulliparity)
History of preeclampsia in a prior pregnancy
Chronic hypertension or kidney disease
Obesity (BMI >30)
Multiple gestation (twins, triplets)
Age over 35 or under 20

Diagnosis

Blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg after 20 weeks of gestation
Urine protein-to-creatinine ratio or 24-hour urine protein collection
Blood tests: liver enzymes, platelet count, creatinine, LDH
Fetal monitoring (non-stress test, biophysical profile, ultrasound for growth)

Treatment

Delivery of the baby (definitive treatment, timing depends on severity and gestational age)
Antihypertensive medications (labetalol, nifedipine, hydralazine)
Magnesium sulfate for seizure prevention (eclampsia prophylaxis)
Corticosteroids if delivery is needed before 37 weeks (for fetal lung maturity)
Close monitoring in hospital for severe preeclampsia

Prevention

Low-dose aspirin (81 mg daily) starting at 12 weeks for women at high risk (ACOG recommendation)
Calcium supplementation in women with low dietary calcium intake
Regular prenatal care with blood pressure monitoring
Maintaining a healthy weight before pregnancy

When to See a Doctor

Sudden swelling of hands or face
Severe headache that does not resolve with rest or acetaminophen
Visual changes during pregnancy (blurring, spots, flashing lights)
Severe upper abdominal pain

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Gestational Diabetes

Endocrine

Miscarriage

Reproductive

Postpartum Depression

Mental Health

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