Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs, most commonly the liver and kidneys. It usually occurs after 20 weeks of gestation and affects around 5-8% of pregnancies globally.

Causes of Preeclampsia

The exact cause of preeclampsia is unknown, but research has identified several risk factors that may contribute to its development. Some of these risk factors are related to blood components:.

1. Abnormal Blood Vessels

Preeclampsia can occur when the blood vessels that supply the placenta don’t develop properly or are damaged.

This can lead to poor blood flow to the placenta, causing problems for the fetus and potentially triggering the development of preeclampsia.

2. Immune System Disorders

Preeclampsia is more common in women who have immune system disorders, such as lupus or antiphospholipid syndrome.

These conditions can cause the body to overreact to pregnancy, leading to inflammation and other problems that can increase the risk of preeclampsia.

3. Clotting Disorders

Women who have clotting disorders, such as factor V Leiden or the MTHFR gene mutation, may be more likely to develop preeclampsia.

These disorders can cause blood clots to form in the placenta, leading to poor blood flow and potentially triggering preeclampsia.

4. Inherited Traits

Preeclampsia can run in families, suggesting a genetic component to the disorder. Women whose mother or sister had preeclampsia may be at increased risk themselves.

5. Blood Pressure and Blood Vessel Function

Research suggests that women who have underlying high blood pressure or blood vessel dysfunction may be more likely to develop preeclampsia.

Additionally, women who have had preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy are at increased risk for developing it in subsequent pregnancies.

6. Multiple Pregnancies

Women who are carrying multiple fetuses, such as twins or triplets, may be more likely to develop preeclampsia.

This is because carrying more than one fetus places greater strain on the mother’s body and increases the risk of poor blood flow to the placenta.

7. Advanced Maternal Age

Women who are over the age of 35 may be at increased risk for developing preeclampsia.

This is because older women may be more likely to have underlying health issues, such as high blood pressure or diabetes, that can increase the risk of developing the complication.

8. Obesity

Women who are overweight or obese may be at increased risk for developing preeclampsia. This is because excess weight can place greater strain on the mother’s body, leading to problems with blood pressure and blood vessel function.

9. Diabetes

Women who have diabetes, particularly type 1 diabetes, may be at increased risk for developing preeclampsia.

This is because diabetes can affect blood vessels and increase the risk of high blood pressure, both of which can contribute to the development of preeclampsia.

10. Smoking

Women who smoke during pregnancy may be more likely to develop preeclampsia. Smoking can damage the blood vessels and increase the risk of poor blood flow, which can contribute to the development of preeclampsia.