Medically referred to as “preeclampsia”, pregnancy-induced hypertension is a condition that usually develops after the 20th week of pregnancy and is characterized by high blood pressure accompanied by excessive protein in the urine. If underestimated or ignored, preeclampsia can lead to serious consequences for both mother and baby. We asked Obstetrics, Gynecology and Perinatology Specialist Prof. Dr. Arda Lembet to address the most frequently asked questions about this condition.
Prof. Dr. Arda Lembet notes that preeclampsia can occur at different stages of pregnancy and may affect the mother, the baby, or both. However, he emphasizes that when appropriate treatment options are evaluated at the right time, most pregnancy-related complications can be successfully managed:
“Preeclampsia, one of the serious health problems that can occur during pregnancy, is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to another organ system, most often the liver and kidneys. Since many expectant mothers with preeclampsia feel well, it is vital that antenatal check-ups are carried out regularly. Although preeclampsia can develop at any time in the second half of pregnancy, it is most commonly seen in the later stages of pregnancy.”
An increase in blood pressure in a pregnant woman with preeclampsia can reduce the amount of oxygen and nutrients reaching the baby. In severe cases, the baby may gradually be deprived of oxygen and nutrition. This can become life-threatening for the baby and may lead to preterm birth. The fact that preeclampsia is among the serious pregnancy complications should never be overlooked, and in the presence of any unusual symptom, a consultation with an obstetrics and gynecology specialist should not be delayed.
Preeclampsia May Develop Without Any Symptoms
Prof. Dr. Arda Lembet continues:
“In some expectant mothers, preeclampsia does not cause any symptoms at all, while in others it may lead to fluid retention (edema), especially in the hands, fingers, neck and face, around the eyes, and also in the feet. Rings may no longer fit the fingers, or there may be marked swelling. Severe preeclampsia symptoms include intense headache, confusion, very high blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and decreased frequency of urination.”
Because preeclampsia may not present with clear symptoms at the beginning, it is extremely important to monitor the mother’s blood pressure regularly during antenatal visits. A sudden rise in blood pressure together with an excessive amount of protein in the urine (proteinuria) are early signs of preeclampsia. In some women, edema may develop over time. Although swelling of the feet and ankles is a common sign of normal pregnancy, sudden swelling of the face, hands and feet should not be dismissed, as it may indicate preeclampsia.
