ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT: PREECLAMPSIA

Preeclampsia is a serious condition that develops during pregnancy, usually after 20 weeks or so, often marked by high blood pressure and protein in the urine; it requires careful monitoring and management

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Last week, on May 22, World Preeclampsia Day was observed, to increase awareness about preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication.

This year's theme, 'Ask me about preeclampsia', aimed at initiating open conversations and raising awareness about the condition. With that in mind, here is all you need to know about preeclampsia.

What is preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a serious condition that develops during pregnancy, usually after 20 weeks or so, often marked by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Because the condition can also affect other organs of the body including the kidneys, liver and brain, it requires careful monitoring and management. Untreated preeclampsia can have serious, even fatal consequences for the mother and baby. In some women, preeclampsia may develop after the delivery of the baby; this is known as postpartum preeclampsia.

Many pregnancy-related complications going undetected and untreated: WHO

What causes preeclampsia?

The exact cause of preeclampsia remains unknown, but researchers believe it may have something to do with blood supply and circulation in the placenta being affected. The placenta is an organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, connecting mother and baby via the umbilical cord. It provides oxygen and essential nutrients to the growing foetus and removes waste products.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), preeclampsia affects 2-8% of pregnancies worldwide. There are around 46,000 maternal deaths due to pre-eclampsia per year and around 5,00,000 foetal or newborn deaths. Preeclampsia and eclampsia (a complication of preeclampsia) are responsible for approximately 10% of maternal deaths in Asia and Africa, it says.

Spotlighting pre-eclampsia, ensuring safe motherhood

Who is at risk of preeclampsia?