Pregnancy is an amazing experience, full of new feelings, changes, and dreams for the future. But it also means paying extra attention to your health, for you and your baby. One of the conditions you may hear about is preeclampsia, and its more serious form, eclampsia.
At THT HMO, we’re here to support you through every step of your pregnancy, with care, information, and encouragement. The more you know, the better prepared you are to stay healthy and safe.
What Are Preeclampsia and Eclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a condition that can happen during pregnancy, usually after 20 weeks. It means your blood pressure is high, and your body is showing signs that some of your organs, like your kidneys or liver, might be under stress.
Eclampsia is a more serious version of preeclampsia that includes seizures (sudden, uncontrolled shaking or loss of consciousness). It’s rare but can be dangerous if not treated quickly.
Good news: With regular checkups and early care, most women with preeclampsia go on to have healthy pregnancies and babies.
How Is It Different from Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension (PIH)?
PIH means you have high blood pressure during pregnancy, but no damage to other organs. It’s often the first warning sign, and if not monitored, PIH can develop into preeclampsia.
That’s why routine antenatal care is so important to catch these changes early and keep you and your baby safe.
Why Does It Happen?
Doctors don’t know exactly why preeclampsia happens, but it’s likely due to changes in how the placenta (your baby’s lifeline) develops. Other possible reasons include:
- Hormonal changes affecting blood vessels
- Problems with how the immune system reacts to pregnancy
- Existing health conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes
- Family history or genetics
It’s not your fault. It can happen to anyone, even women with a healthy pregnancy.
Who Is More Likely to Get It?
You might be at a higher risk of preeclampsia if:
- It’s your first pregnancy
- You’re under 20 or over 35
- You have high blood pressure, diabetes, or kidney disease
- You had preeclampsia before (your previous pregnancy)
- You’re pregnant with twins or more
- You’re overweight
- It’s been many years since your last pregnancy
Knowing your risk helps your doctor give you the best care.
What Signs Should You Watch For?
Preeclampsia can sneak up without many symptoms, especially early on. But here are some signs to look out for:
- High blood pressure (usually checked at antenatal visits)
- Swelling in your face, hands, or feet
- Headaches that won’t go away
- Blurred vision, spots, or light sensitivity
- Pain in the upper belly, especially on the right side
- Sudden weight gain
- Feeling breathless
- Nausea or vomiting
- Seizures (in eclampsia-this is an emergency)
If you notice any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately.
Is It Dangerous?
Preeclampsia can be serious, but only if it’s ignored or left untreated.
If not managed, it can lead to:
- Eclampsia (seizures in pregnancy)
- Placenta abruptio (when the placenta separates too early)
- Low birth weight
- Premature birth
- Organ problems in the mother
- Stillbirth (in rare, severe cases)
But here’s the good part: most women with preeclampsia have healthy outcomes when it’s caught early and managed well.
Can It Be Prevented?
There’s no guaranteed way to prevent preeclampsia, but you can reduce your risk by taking care of yourself and working closely with your healthcare provider:
- Start early antenatal care and go for all your visits
- Eat a balanced diet with low salt and lots of veggies, fruits, and healthy foods
- Stay active with light exercise (like walking or prenatal yoga)
- Avoid smoking, alcohol, and too much caffeine
- If your doctor advises, take low-dose aspirin daily
- Manage health conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
- Stay hydrated and get plenty of rest
How Is It Treated?
If you’re diagnosed with preeclampsia, don’t panic. Your doctor will help you create a plan to keep things under control.
Depending on how far along your pregnancy is and how severe the condition is, treatment may include:
- Regular monitoring of blood pressure, urine, and baby’s growth
- Medications to lower your blood pressure
- Magnesium sulfate (for severe cases) to prevent seizures
- Staying in the hospital if things get more serious
- Delivering the baby early if needed (sometimes by induction or cesarean section)
Once the baby is born, preeclampsia usually goes away, but you’ll still need monitoring after delivery.
What Can You Do?
You are your own best advocate during pregnancy. Here’s how you can stay on top of things:
- Don’t miss antenatal visits
- Check your blood pressure at home if recommended
- Pay attention to your body. If something feels “off,” speak up
- Take any prescribed medications exactly as directed
- Ask questions, your health team is there to help you
- Lean on your support system, you don’t have to do it all alone
When to Call for Emergency Help
Contact your healthcare provider right away if you experience:
- Severe or constant headaches
- Blurry vision or flashing lights
- Strong belly pain
- Seizures or fainting
- Swelling that gets worse quickly
- Less movement from your baby
Early action can make all the difference.
You’re Not Alone — THT HMO Is Here for You
Preeclampsia and eclampsia can sound scary, but you’re not alone. With the right information, regular care, and support from your health team, you can have a safe and healthy pregnancy.
If you have questions, concerns, or need guidance, don’t wait, reach out to your THT HMO care provider. We’re here to walk with you, answer your questions, and give you the best care possible.
Because your health and your baby’s matter every step of the way.
