Regardless of the way you attained conception, pre-eclampsia is both dangerous to both the baby and the mother. In case left untreated, it can lead to serious or even fatal complications. Much as it can’t be cured, you will have to take proper care and attention until you deliver the baby.

What is Preeclampsia?

This is one of the commonest medical conditions in pregnant women. It is described as the sudden rise in the blood pleasure and the existence of protein in the woman’s urine. Much as high blood pressure may not necessarily mean that a woman has preeclampsia, it may indicate an underlying medical condition that must be addressed.

When does Preeclampsia occur?

This condition occurs during the third trimester that is 20 weeks of a woman’s pregnancy. The condition occurs in 4 to 8 pregnancies.

It causes swelling (edema) in the face, feet, and hands and Albuminuria (excess protein in the urine).

Preeclampsia leads to organ failure like the liver, kidneys, and may also affect the brain.

Who is at risk of Preeclampsia?

Women with higher chances of developing preeclampsia are those;

• Above 40 years

• With a history of preeclampsia or in case your mother or sister suffered from the condition

• In case it is your first pregnancy

• You are expecting twins

• Chronic hypertension

• With obesity

• Conceived through IVF

• Suffer from high blood pressure

• Suffer from systemic lupus erythematosus

• Suffer from Antiphospholipid Syndrome

Preeclampsia & IVF

Fertility experts at our IVF centre in India warn women about the increased risk of preeclampsia during a pregnancy attained through In Vitro Fertilization. Research shows that the risk of preeclampsia doubles in IVF pregnancies.

To avoid complications, a woman must be frequently examined and her blood pressure taken during every appointment.

With mild preeclampsia, a woman may be tested and allowed to return home.

Severe preeclampsia requires hospitalization.

How is preeclampsia dangerous?

Cases of preeclampsia vary widely from one woman to another, but the severity of preeclampsia paves major complications to both the baby and the mother.

Preeclampsia in mothers can lead to liver or renal failure, constriction of blood vessels, and future cardiovascular medical problems. Furthermore, the condition can lead to;

Eclampsia

Eclampsia is a severe form of preeclampsia that leads to seizures in a woman.

HELLP Syndrome

This refers to a series of symptoms that can affect a pregnant woman. The symptoms include vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, headaches, and nausea.

Preeclampsia may affect a baby’s weight. This means that the baby will be born with low weight or before the due date.

Treatment of Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia treatment is provided depending on how a woman is close to her due date. In case the due date is closer, your doctor may suggest that your baby be born soon enough and in case the baby is not yet fully developed the following are possible treatments for preeclampsia

• Medications to regulate blood pressure levels

• Increased prenatal checkups

• Taking more water regularly (at least 8 glasses)

• Having a proper diet that contains less salt and more proteins

• Bed rest by lying on your left side

• In case undergoing IVF treatment in India, a proper evaluation must have been taken right after the results turn out to be positive. This helps to prevent complications that may lead to miscarriage or death of the unborn

It is recommended that you visit a gynecologist or your doctor every month to check out for any medical condition. An ultrasound scan, blood tests and measuring the BP can offer great help to prevent or reduce preeclampsia’s effects.