Pre-eclampsia
Overview
Pre-eclampsia is a condition that affects some pregnant women, usually during the second half of pregnancy (from 20 weeks) or soon after their baby is delivered.
Symptoms
Early signs of pre-eclampsia include havinghigh blood pressure (hypertension)and protein in your urine (proteinuria). It's unlikely that you'll notice these signs, but they should be picked up during your routineantenatal appointments. In some cases, further symptoms can develop, including: severe headachevision problems, such as blurring or flashingpain just below the ribsvomitingsudden swelling of the face, hands or feet If you notice any symptoms of pre-eclampsia, seek medical advice immediately by calling your midwife, GP surgery or NHS 111. Although many cases are mild, the condition can lead to serious complications for both mother and baby if it's not monitored and treated. The earlier pre-eclampsia is diagnosed and monitored, the better the outlook for mother and baby. In this video, a midwife explains the warning signs of pre-eclampsia.
Causes
Although the exact cause of pre-eclampsia is not known, it's thought to occur when there's a problem with the placenta, the organ that links the baby's blood supply to the mother's.
Treatment
Monitoring; Blood pressure medication. Delivery of baby (cure).
Prevention
Aspirin (if high risk); Healthy lifestyle.
When to see a doctor
See Midwife/GP immediately if: severe headache; vision change; sudden swelling (in pregnancy).