Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that affects about 5% of pregnant women. It is characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs, most commonly the liver and kidneys.

Preeclampsia can lead to serious complications for both the mother and baby, including premature delivery, low birth weight, and fetal death.

What Causes Preeclampsia?

The exact cause of preeclampsia is not known, but it is thought to develop when the placenta does not function properly. The placenta is the organ that connects the mother to the fetus and supplies nutrients and oxygen to the baby.

When the placenta does not work properly, it releases substances into the mother’s bloodstream that can cause high blood pressure and damage to organs.

Who is at Risk for Preeclampsia?

Women who are pregnant for the first time, have a history of high blood pressure, have had preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy, have diabetes, are obese, or are carrying multiple fetuses have an increased risk of developing preeclampsia.

Preventing Preeclampsia with Aspirin

Recent studies have shown that taking low-dose aspirin during pregnancy can help prevent preeclampsia in women who are at high risk.

Low-dose aspirin, which is typically 81 milligrams per day, helps to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the placenta, which can improve its function.

When Should You Start Taking Aspirin?

Women who are at high risk for preeclampsia should start taking low-dose aspirin at 12 weeks of pregnancy or earlier.

High-risk women include those with a history of preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy, chronic hypertension, diabetes, kidney disease, or autoimmune disease. Women who are carrying multiple fetuses may also be at high risk.

How Long Should You Take Aspirin?

Women who are at high risk for preeclampsia should continue taking low-dose aspirin until they deliver their baby.

It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about when to stop taking aspirin, as this may vary depending on your individual situation.

Possible Side Effects of Aspirin

While low-dose aspirin is generally safe for pregnant women, some women may experience side effects. The most common side effect is stomach upset or heartburn.

Rarely, taking aspirin during pregnancy can increase the risk of bleeding or cause the baby’s blood to clot abnormally. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about taking aspirin during pregnancy.

Other Ways to Prevent Preeclampsia

In addition to taking low-dose aspirin, women can take other steps to help prevent preeclampsia, including:.

Eating a healthy diet
Exercising regularly
Getting regular prenatal care
Managing any existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes

Conclusion

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that can lead to complications for both the mother and baby. Women who are at high risk for preeclampsia can help reduce their risk by taking low-dose aspirin during pregnancy.

It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about whether aspirin is right for you and to follow their recommendations for dosing and duration of use.