Preeclampsia and Pregnancy
Pregnancy
Obie Editorial Team
Preeclampsia is a condition that requires attention during the second half of pregnancy. It is marked by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine. As a complication that can escalate to eclampsia, which involves seizures, it can seriously affect the health of both the mother and baby if not managed properly. Effective and timely intervention, often involving delivering the baby, can mitigate these risks. Most women experience significant recovery postpartum.
If you've had preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy, there's an increased likelihood of recurrence. The recurrence risk varies based on factors including your current health and previous preeclampsia events. Women with chronic conditions like hypertension face a noticeable risk—up to 70%—of preeclampsia in subsequent pregnancies, especially if the previous onset was early or if severe in nature.
Consider a case study where a woman achieved pregnancy via IVF. With no personal medical history concerns, she noted her sister experienced severe preeclampsia, delivering prematurely. This piece of family history revealed an increased risk in her own pregnancy, underscoring the importance of sharing familial health history with healthcare providers for proactive management.
Preeclampsia is a serious maternal health risk that can impact the brain, heart, kidneys, and liver if not addressed. While the exact cause remains under research, understanding it helps guide treatment decisions which typically focus on ensuring timely delivery for the health of both mother and child.
A significant study published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) in 2005 emphasized generational links to preeclampsia:
This evidence points to genetic influences from both maternal and paternal sides, with maternal genes carrying a stronger link. Therefore, when assessing your personal risk, reviewing and discussing family medical history with your healthcare provider is a crucial step for proactive care.