Treatments For Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a dangerous pregnancy complication involving elevated blood pressure and increased strain on the kidneys and liver. In extreme cases, it can progress to eclampsia or HELLP syndrome, which may be fatal to mother and baby. Worldwide, preeclampsia and related conditions may cause as many as seventy-six maternal and 500 thousand infant fatalities per year.

Preeclampsia usually begins after twenty weeks in expecting mothers who previously had normal blood pressure. Often preeclampsia does not show any symptoms. When symptoms are observed, they include protein in the urine, changes in vision, shortness of breath, and severe headaches. It is imperative for all pregnant women to have their blood pressure monitored regularly, and that women at risk for preeclampsia have treatment plans ready. Here are known treatments for preeclampsia.

Delivery

In nearly all mothers with preeclampsia, the condition goes away upon delivery of the baby and the placenta. For this reason, sometimes delivery will be induced early, before thirty-seven weeks, or a Caesarian section will be performed. In all cases, the doctor weighs the benefits to the baby against the risks of continuing the pregnancy. Most women with mild preeclampsia can safely go to full term with the aid of other treatments on this list, but physicians need to carefully monitor the mother’s as well as the baby's health either way. When preeclampsia does not immediately resolve after the birth, the mother may need further treatment.

Get to know the next treatment option for preeclampsia patients.