Preeclampsia: Symptoms, Risks, and Treatment

Preeclampsia affects up to 5 percent of all pregnancies. The condition can develop quickly and become serious, but with proper care the vast majority of women and babies do well.

Here is an overview of the symptoms to watch for, who is at higher risk, and how the condition is treated.

What is preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a condition that develops after week 20 of pregnancy. It is characterized by high blood pressure and signs that internal organs are being affected, such as protein in the urine.

The condition occurs because the placenta is not functioning optimally. This causes blood vessels throughout the body to constrict, raising blood pressure.

Symptoms to watch for

Some women notice very little, while others develop clear symptoms. Preeclampsia is often detected at a prenatal appointment through blood pressure measurement and urine testing.

Common symptoms:

• High blood pressure (140/90 mmHg or higher)
• Protein in the urine
• Swelling in the face, hands, and feet
• Persistent headache that won't go away
• Visual disturbances (flashing lights, blurred vision)
• Pain in the upper abdomen (under the ribs on the right side)
• Nausea and vomiting late in pregnancy
• Sudden significant weight gain due to fluid retention

Some of these symptoms can also occur in a normal pregnancy. It is the combination and severity that matters.

Who is at higher risk?

Any pregnant person can develop preeclampsia, but some are at greater risk than others.

Risk factors:

• First pregnancy
• Age over 40
• Body mass index (BMI) over 35
• Diabetes (type 1, type 2, or gestational diabetes)
• Pre-existing high blood pressure
• Multiple pregnancy (twins or more)
• Preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy
• Close family member (mother or sister) who has had the condition
• Kidney disease
• Autoimmune conditions such as lupus (SLE)

How is it detected?

Preeclampsia is usually found at a prenatal appointment. Your midwife or doctor checks blood pressure and urine at each visit — precisely to catch this early.

Assessments performed:

• Blood pressure measurement
• Urine test (checks for protein)
• Blood tests (liver, kidneys, platelets)
• Ultrasound of the baby (checks growth and amniotic fluid)

If you are at increased risk, a special blood flow study of the uterine arteries may be done at 11–14 weeks.

Prevention

For people at increased risk, WHO and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommend preventive treatment.

Low-dose aspirin:

• Recommended from week 12 to week 36
• Given to people with moderate to high risk
• Reduces the risk of early preeclampsia by up to 60 percent
• Typical dose is 150 mg daily
• Your doctor will determine whether you need this

Calcium supplementation:

• May be recommended where calcium intake is low
• Your doctor will determine whether you need this

Treatment

There is no cure for preeclampsia. The only treatment that resolves the condition completely is delivery. Until then, the goal is to keep it under control.

Mild preeclampsia

• More frequent monitoring with your midwife or doctor
• Blood pressure medication when needed
• Regular blood and urine tests
• Ultrasound to monitor the baby's growth

Severe preeclampsia

• Hospital admission
• Blood pressure medication
• Magnesium sulfate to prevent seizures (eclampsia)
• Close monitoring of mother and baby
• Planned delivery when medically necessary

When is the baby delivered?

The timing depends on the severity of the condition and how far along the pregnancy is.

• Mild preeclampsia: Usually induction at 37–38 weeks
• Severe preeclampsia: Delivery may be needed earlier
• Before 34 weeks: The baby receives steroids to mature the lungs before delivery

After birth

Preeclampsia typically resolves within the first few weeks after delivery. Blood pressure usually normalizes within 6–12 weeks.

Postpartum follow-up:

• Blood pressure monitored regularly in the first few days
• You may need blood pressure medication for a period
• Follow-up with your doctor 6–12 weeks after birth
• Annual blood pressure checks are recommended

Women who have had preeclampsia have a somewhat increased risk of cardiovascular disease later in life. A healthy lifestyle with physical activity, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight reduces this risk.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prevent preeclampsia?

You cannot prevent it entirely, but low-dose aspirin from week 12 significantly reduces the risk for those at increased risk. A healthy lifestyle, healthy weight, and regular prenatal care are important for everyone.

Is preeclampsia dangerous for the baby?

Preeclampsia can affect blood flow to the placenta, which in turn can affect the baby's growth. With good monitoring and timely delivery, the vast majority of babies do well.

Can I get it again in a future pregnancy?

Yes, the risk is 15–20% if you have had it before. Let your care provider know early so you can receive preventive treatment and closer monitoring.

What is the difference between preeclampsia and eclampsia?

Eclampsia refers to seizures that can occur as a complication of preeclampsia. Magnesium sulfate is given to prevent this. Eclampsia is rare when prenatal care is readily available.

Summary

Preeclampsia is a serious but manageable condition. The key is early detection through regular prenatal appointments.

Know the symptoms, attend all your appointments, and contact your care provider if anything feels different. With proper follow-up, the vast majority of women and babies come through well.

Track your pregnancy week by week with our Pregnancy Timeline, or use our Due Date Calculator to keep on top of key dates.

Read more

• Induction of Labor — When and how labor is started
• C-Section: Complete Guide — Everything about planned and emergency cesarean sections
• Gestational Diabetes — Diet and treatment
• Parental Leave Guide — Your rights as a parent

Sources

1. WHO — Preeclampsia and eclampsia
2. ACOG — Preeclampsia and High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy