Effects on mom and baby According to David Stultz, MD, a cardiologist with Kettering Health, experts believe preeclampsia occurs because of a spasm in the inner lining of the mother’s blood vessels. “This causes high blood pressure in the mother as well as decreased blood flow to multiple organs in the mother and possibly the fetus,” Dr. Stultz explains. The fetus may receive less blood flow, which can lead to impaired growth, preterm birth, and even stillbirth. “Preeclampsia is one of the major causes of maternal mortality and can lead to significant maternal complications, such as stroke,” says Dr. Stultz. Although there’s no foolproof method to prevent preeclampsia, practicing good health habits before and during pregnancy can help. How to lower your risk “Being aware of the risk is the first place to start,” Dr. Stultz says. Certain factors can increase your risk of preeclampsia, including • Advanced maternal age • Autoimmune diseases, such as lupus or multiple sclerosis • Carrying multiple fetuses • Chronic high blood pressure • Diabetes • History of preeclampsia • Kidney disease If you have a high risk of preeclampsia, your healthcare provider may prescribe low-dose aspirin to lower your risk. But even women without any risk factors can develop preeclampsia. Before and during pregnancy, it’s important to eat a nutritious diet and exercise regularly. Follow all your healthcare provider’s instructions throughout your prenatal care to increase your chances of having a healthy pregnancy. Effects on long-term heart health Long-term, women who experience preeclampsia have an increased risk of developing high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. “It’s not clear if preeclampsia itself causes these conditions later in life,” Dr. Stultz states. “Pregnancy may place a stress on patients who already have risk factors for developing these conditions.” Is preeclampsia linked to gestational diabetes? Yes. As Dr. Stultz explains, “Women who have gestational diabetes are about twice as likely to also have preeclampsia. The link between the two is not entirely clear, but both conditions have similar risk factors: advanced maternal age, first pregnancy, obesity, and carrying multiple fetuses.” If you have gestational diabetes or preeclampsia, your healthcare provider will guide you on a treatment plan and monitor you closely to ensure both you and your baby stay safe. How to protect yourself and your baby Throughout your pregnancy, the most important strategy for staying healthy is to see your healthcare provider regularly for prenatal care. These visits increase the chances of detecting preeclampsia early, so you can get timely treatment. ketteringhealth.org 19 NEED TO KNOW ABOUT HERE FOR YOU Talk to your OB-GYN or midwife about your risk of preeclampsia. If you don’t yet have a provider, visit ketteringhealth.org/ women to schedule an appointment with a women’s health provider.
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