Pregnancy is an exciting time, but complications like preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome can be scary to learn about. Roberto Velez, MD, OB/GYN at MercyOne North Iowa Obstetrics and Gynecology, walks you through everything you need to know about preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome.
What is preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a serious gestational hypertension condition where a pregnant person has high blood pressure and excess protein in the urine. It occurs in about 1 in 25 pregnancies in the U.S. Left untreated, it can lead to fatal complications for you and your baby.
“Preeclampsia has become more common,” said Dr. Velez. “The good news is there are tools to handle it.”
Risk factors for preeclampsia
While the cause of preeclampsia is still unknown, preexisting conditions and other factors can increase your risk of developing preeclampsia, including:
- Adolescent or advanced maternal-age pregnancies.
- Chronic high blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Large periods of time between pregnancies.
- Obesity.
- Pre-existing conditions.
- Pregnancies from IVF.
- Pregnancies with more than one baby.
If you had preeclampsia during a previous pregnancy, you are at a greater risk of developing the condition again. A daily low dose of aspirin can help delay or reduce preeclampsia risk. Talk with your provider if aspirin could help lower your risk of preeclampsia.
Symptoms of preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure. Physical symptoms include:
- Abdominal pain in the upper right.
- Changes in vision including blurry vision and seeing flashes of light.
- Rapid swelling (edema).
- Severe headache that won’t go away.
- Shortness of breath.
Many of these symptoms are also symptoms of pregnancy. Pay attention to unexpected changes in a short amount of time. Preeclampsia is often a surprise. Symptoms can develop within a matter of days.
When is preeclampsia diagnosed?
Having high blood pressure does not mean you have preeclampsia. Doctors detect preeclampsia around 20 weeks by testing a urine sample for high protein levels.
HELLP syndrome
HELLP syndrome is a rare, serious form of preeclampsia. The condition causes the breakdown of red blood cells and a low platelet count. It can cause serious problems with your major organs and the baby’s heartbeat. A HELLP syndrome diagnosis is severe. Your baby might have to be born early.
Treatment for preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome
The best treatment for preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome is delivery. However, the condition can develop before the baby is ready. Treatment will depend on how far along you are and the severity of the diagnosis. If you are 37 weeks or later, your baby will be mature enough to be induced.
“We’re trying to make sure you and your baby stay safe during your pregnancy,” says Dr. Velez. “But we may have to deliver your baby early, even if it’s not fully developed yet.”
Will I have to have a c-section?
Vaginal delivery is possible, but your provider may decide it is not safe. Cesarean section is common with preeclampsia. Prolonged labor with preeclampsia can be dangerous for you and the baby. Preeclampsia can lead to eclampsia (seizures).
“Preeclampsia does not always rule out vaginal delivery, but labor can take up to 24 hours,” says Dr. Velez. “We may not have time because of the complications that can arise.”
Hypertension after delivery
Gestational hypertension usually goes away within a month. After birth, your provider will monitor you to ensure that symptoms subside.
In some severe cases, you may develop chronic hypertension and need to stay on blood pressure medication.
Preeclampsia prevention
Preeclampsia during pregnancy does not make future pregnancies impossible. Lifestyle changes before you become pregnant can lower your risk.
- Eat a heart-healthy diet.
- Exercise.
- Limit alcohol consumptions and smoking.
- Manage your stress levels.
