By Dr Isabel Herrera (Licensed Physician No. 030310741).
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that generally appears after the 20th week of gestation. It is characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organs, such as the kidneys, liver, or brain.
One of the main indicators is the presence of proteins in the urine (proteinuria), which reflects kidney damage. It can also affect the baby's growth and, if untreated, pose a risk to the life of the mother and the fetus.
Although the exact cause of preeclampsia is unknown, experts believe it is related to abnormalities in the development of the blood vessels of the placenta. These vessels may be narrower than normal, making it difficult to supply nutrients and oxygen to the baby.
Risk factors include: pre-existing hypertension, diabetes, multiple pregnancies, and a family history of preeclampsia.
The most common symptoms are:
It is essential to consult a doctor if any of these symptoms occur, as early detection can prevent serious complications.
Some women are more predisposed to developing preeclampsia. Risk factors include:
Early diagnosis is key to proper management. The most common tests include:
Readings of 140/90 mmHg or higher in two measurements taken at least 4 hours apart.
Urine tests are performed to detect proteinuria.
To evaluate liver and kidney function, as well as platelet count.
To monitor the baby's growth and well-being, including weight and amniotic fluid.
To assess the baby's heart rate and other health parameters.
Preeclampsia cannot be completely prevented, but the risk can be reduced by taking certain measures:
Your doctor will assess whether you need specific preventive treatment, such as low-dose aspirin (according to current protocols).
The only definitive treatment for preeclampsia is delivery, as the condition resolves after the baby is born. However, the timing of delivery will depend on the severity of preeclampsia and the gestational age.
If the pregnancy is under 37 weeks, rest, frequent monitoring, and medication to manage blood pressure may be recommended.
Inducing labor or performing a cesarean section may be necessary if there is a risk to the mother or baby.
In severe cases, medications such as antihypertensives and magnesium sulfate are administered to prevent seizures (eclampsia). Some women may require hospitalization for closer monitoring.
Medical follow-up during pregnancy is essential to detect early signs of preeclampsia and protect the health of the mother and baby. If you have any symptoms or concerns, consult your medical team immediately.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
Gestational Hypertension and Preeclampsia: ACOG Practice Bulletin, Number 222.
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG).
2020;
e237-e260
Clinical guide on gestational hypertension and preeclampsia:
https://doi.org/10.1097/AOG.0000000000003891
Magee LA., Nicolaides KH., von Dadelszen P.
Preeclampsia.
New England Journal of Medicine.
2022;
1817-1832
Review of preeclampsia, diagnosis and clinical management:
https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMra2109523
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence.
Hypertension in pregnancy: diagnosis and management. NICE guideline NG133.
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
2019;
Guide on the diagnosis and management of hypertension in pregnancy:
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng133
Burton GJ, Redman CW, Roberts JM, Moffett A.
Pre-eclampsia: pathophysiology and clinical implications.
BMJ.
2019;
l2381
Review of the pathophysiology and clinical implications of preeclampsia:
https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.l2381
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