Healthy Mom

Find out if you have Preeclampsia

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Preeclampsia. It's quick, free, and you’ll get your confidential results instantly.

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Anemia Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Anemia.

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Severe Morning Sickness Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Severe Morning Sickness.

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Prenatal Anxiety Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Prenatal Anxiety.

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Prenatal Depression Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Prenatal Depression.

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Gestational Hypertension Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Gestational Hypertension.

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Gestational Diabetes Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Gestational Diabetes.

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Pelvic Girdle Pain Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Pelvic Girdle Pain (also known as Symphysis Pubis Dysfunction).

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Prenatal Sleep Disorder Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Prenatal Sleep Disorder.

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Postpartum Infections Test

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Postpartum Thyroiditis Test

This test reports on a postpartum mother's risk for Postpartum Thyroiditis.

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester, Post-Birth

Breast Infection Test

This test reports on a new or expectant mother's risk for Breast Infection (also known as Mastitis).

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Postpartum Anxiety Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Anxiety.

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Postpartum Depression Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Depression.

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Postpartum Sleep Disorder Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Sleep Disorder.

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Post-Birth

Diastasis Recti Test

This test reports on a new mother's risk for Diastasis Recti.

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Post-Birth

Postpartum Preeclampsia Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Preeclampsia.

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Post-Birth

Postpartum Trauma Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Trauma.

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2nd, 3rd Trimester

Obstetric Cholestasis Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Obstetric Cholestasis.

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Deep Vein Thrombosis Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).

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Postpartum Cardiomyopathy Test

This test reports on a new mother's risk for Postpartum Cardiomyopathy.

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

Pregnancy-related OCD Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Pregnancy-related OCD.

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Postpartum Psychosis Test

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Symptoms & Causes

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, most commonly the liver and kidneys. Understanding the symptoms and causes of preeclampsia is essential for early detection and appropriate management to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby.

Symptoms

Preeclampsia may present with the following symptoms:

  • Elevated Blood Pressure: Blood pressure readings consistently above 140/90 mm Hg, measured on two separate occasions at least four hours apart, after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
  • Proteinuria: Presence of protein in the urine, detected through a urine test, indicating kidney involvement.
  • Swelling: Edema, particularly in the hands and face, although swelling is common during pregnancy and may not always indicate preeclampsia.
  • Headaches: Persistent or severe headaches that do not improve with rest or hydration.
  • Visual Disturbances: Blurred vision, spots or flashes of light, or other visual disturbances.
  • Abdominal Pain: Severe pain in the upper abdomen, under the ribs, which may be a sign of liver involvement.
  • Nausea or Vomiting: Nausea, vomiting, or gastrointestinal symptoms.
  • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, especially when lying down, which may indicate fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema).
  • Decreased Urine Output: Reduced frequency of urination or decreased urine output, indicating kidney dysfunction.
  • Decreased Fetal Movement: Decreased fetal movements or kick counts, which may indicate fetal distress.
  • Seizures: In severe cases, preeclampsia can progress to eclampsia, characterized by seizures or convulsions.

Causes

The exact cause of preeclampsia is not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development, including:

  • Placental Factors: Dysfunction of the placenta, such as inadequate blood flow or abnormal development, may contribute to the development of preeclampsia.
  • Endothelial Dysfunction: Impaired function of the endothelial cells lining blood vessels, leading to vasoconstriction and increased blood pressure.
  • Genetic Factors: Genetic predisposition or family history of preeclampsia may increase the risk of developing the condition.
  • Maternal Factors: Underlying maternal conditions such as obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, or autoimmune disorders may predispose women to preeclampsia.
  • First Pregnancy: Preeclampsia is more common in first pregnancies, possibly due to maternal adaptation to the physiological changes of pregnancy.
  • Age: Women under 20 or over 40 years of age are at increased risk of developing preeclampsia.
  • Multiple Gestation: Carrying twins or higher-order multiples increases the risk of preeclampsia due to the increased demands on the maternal cardiovascular system.
  • Assisted Reproductive Technologies: Women who conceive through assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), may have a higher risk of preeclampsia.

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ damage. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding the causes are important for early detection and appropriate management to reduce the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Proper diagnosis and treatment is essential for managing preeclampsia and reducing the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of preeclampsia involves:

  • Blood Pressure Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood pressure readings, with measurements taken at prenatal appointments using a sphygmomanometer or automated blood pressure monitor.
  • Diagnostic Criteria: Diagnosis is based on blood pressure readings consistently above 140/90 mm Hg, measured on two separate occasions at least four hours apart, after 20 weeks of pregnancy, along with the presence of proteinuria (protein in the urine).
  • Urine Tests: Urinalysis to detect proteinuria, indicating kidney involvement.
  • Assessment of Symptoms: Evaluation of symptoms such as headaches, visual disturbances, abdominal pain, or swelling, which may indicate complications or progression to severe preeclampsia.
  • Blood Tests: Blood tests to assess liver and kidney function, platelet count, and blood clotting parameters to detect signs of organ damage.
  • Fetal Monitoring: Regular fetal assessment through methods such as fetal movement counts, nonstress tests, or ultrasound to monitor fetal well-being and detect signs of fetal distress.

Treatment

Treatment of preeclampsia focuses on managing symptoms, controlling blood pressure, and preventing complications. Treatment options may include:

Lifestyle Modifications:

  • Rest: Adequate rest and avoiding excessive physical activity can help reduce blood pressure and promote maternal well-being.
  • Dietary Changes: Following a balanced diet low in sodium and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help manage blood pressure levels.
  • Monitoring Fluid Intake: Avoiding excessive fluid intake and limiting caffeine and alcohol consumption can help regulate blood pressure.
  • Regular Prenatal Care: Attending regular prenatal appointments for monitoring blood pressure, urine tests, and fetal well-being is essential for managing preeclampsia.

Medical Interventions:

  • Antihypertensive Medications: Medications to lower blood pressure may be prescribed, such as methyldopa, labetalol, or nifedipine, to reduce the risk of complications.
  • Delivery: Delivery of the baby may be recommended if preeclampsia is severe or if complications develop, particularly after 37 weeks of gestation.
  • Monitoring and Surveillance: Close monitoring of maternal and fetal well-being, including blood pressure, urine tests, fetal heart rate monitoring, and ultrasound, to detect any signs of worsening preeclampsia or fetal distress.
  • Hospitalization: Hospitalization may be necessary for close observation and management of severe preeclampsia, particularly if complications develop.
  • Corticosteroids: In some cases, corticosteroid medications may be administered to accelerate fetal lung maturity if preterm delivery is anticipated.

The diagnosis and treatment of preeclampsia requires close monitoring and management to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. Early detection and appropriate intervention are essential for reducing the risk of complications and promoting a positive pregnancy outcome.

When to Seek Treatment

Recognizing the symptoms and knowing when to seek treatment for suspected preeclampsia is crucial for early intervention and minimizing the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby.

It's important for pregnant women to seek treatment for suspected preeclampsia if they experience:

  • Elevated Blood Pressure: Blood pressure readings consistently above 140/90 mm Hg, measured on two separate occasions at least four hours apart, after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
  • Presence of Symptoms: Symptoms such as headaches, visual disturbances, abdominal pain, or swelling, which may indicate complications or progression to severe preeclampsia.
  • Proteinuria: Presence of protein in the urine, detected through a urine test, indicating kidney involvement.
  • Reduced Fetal Movement: Decreased fetal movements or kick counts, which may indicate fetal distress.
  • Concerns About Blood Pressure: Feeling anxious or concerned about elevated blood pressure readings or other symptoms of preeclampsia.
  • History of Preeclampsia: Women with a history of preeclampsia in previous pregnancies are at increased risk and should be particularly vigilant.
  • Medical Advice: If a healthcare provider recommends evaluation or treatment for suspected preeclampsia based on prenatal assessments or monitoring.

Importance of Timely Treatment

Seeking timely treatment for suspected preeclampsia is crucial for several reasons:

  • Preventing Complications: Early intervention can help prevent the progression to severe preeclampsia, eclampsia, or other complications, reducing the risk of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.
  • Managing Blood Pressure: Proper management of blood pressure and symptoms can help stabilize maternal health and reduce the risk of complications such as stroke, seizures, or organ damage.
  • Optimizing Fetal Well-being: Timely intervention allows for close monitoring of fetal well-being and appropriate management to minimize the risk of fetal distress or adverse outcomes.
  • Collaborative Care: Collaborative care between healthcare providers and regular prenatal appointments are essential for optimizing maternal and fetal outcomes and ensuring comprehensive management of preeclampsia.

Pregnant women experiencing symptoms of preeclampsia or concerns about elevated blood pressure should seek medical evaluation and treatment promptly. Early intervention is key to managing preeclampsia effectively and ensuring a healthier pregnancy outcome for both the mother and the baby.