Pre-eclampsia, the facts
Pre-eclampsia affects 5-8% of all pregnancies and is a disorder that could potentially harm both mother and unborn baby.
The illness is characterized by high blood pressure, swelling, rapid weight gain and protein in the urine. It can affect the baby’s growth as it reduces the blood flow to the placenta, which restricts the amount of oxygen and nutrients let through.
Although the cause of pre-eclampsia is still unknown there are risk factors. Those who are most vulnerable to the disorder are those:
- Experiencing their first pregnancy
- Obese at the start of pregnancy
- Over 40
- Expecting twins
- Have a family history of the illness
Regular prenatal check-ups are vital to spot the condition early, as a person with mild pre-eclampsia may feel perfectly well. The symptoms of severe pre-eclampsia however are more obvious; this can develop during the last two weeks of pregnancy and symptoms include blurry vision, intolerance to bright lights, nausea and water retention.
If these symptoms start to occur then immediately call a doctor or midwife, early detection can make a big difference in the course of pre-eclampsia. If the condition is not properly treated the patient may develop eclampsia, a fatal condition involving coma and convulsions.
Although there is no certain method in preventing pre-eclampsia there are ways to check on you and your baby’s health. Attend antenatal appointments regularly, the urine tests and blood-pressure readings are used to trace any early signs of pre-eclampsia. Calcium supplements used before and during the pregnancy can also help prevent pre-eclampsia, these treatments can be received from your midwife or doctor.
Female First- Claire Williams