Preeclampsia is a serious condition that can occur during pregnancy and affects both the mother and the baby. It is characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys.

Preeclampsia can develop at any time during pregnancy, often after 20 weeks, and can lead to complications such as premature birth or stillbirth. Some women are at higher risk for developing preeclampsia during pregnancy than others.

1. First-time mothers

Women who are pregnant for the first time are at a higher risk of developing preeclampsia. This may be because the mother’s immune system has not yet developed the protective proteins needed to prevent the condition.

2. Women with a history of preeclampsia

Women who have had preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy are at higher risk of developing it again in future pregnancies. The risk increases with each pregnancy.

3. Women with a history of chronic hypertension

Women with high blood pressure before they become pregnant or who develop it during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing preeclampsia.

This is because high blood pressure can cause damage to blood vessels and organs in the body, making it more difficult for the body to adapt to the stresses of pregnancy.

4. Women with certain medical conditions

Women who have certain medical conditions, such as type 1 or type 2 diabetes, lupus, renal disease, or autoimmune disorders, are at a higher risk of developing preeclampsia during pregnancy.

These conditions can put additional stress on the body and make it more difficult for it to handle the stresses of pregnancy.

5. Women carrying multiple babies

Women who are pregnant with twins, triplets, or more are at a higher risk of developing preeclampsia.

This is because the demands on the mother’s body are greater, and the placenta may not develop as well, leading to a higher risk of complications.

6. Women over the age of 35

Women who become pregnant over the age of 35 are at a higher risk of developing preeclampsia.

This may be because their bodies are less able to adapt to the changes of pregnancy, or because they are more likely to have underlying medical conditions that can increase the risk of preeclampsia.

7. Women with a family history of preeclampsia

Women who have a mother, sister, or other close relative who has had preeclampsia are at a higher risk of developing the condition.

8. Women who are obese

Women who are obese before becoming pregnant or who gain excessive weight during pregnancy are at a higher risk of developing preeclampsia.

This may be because obesity is associated with inflammation and other factors that can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy.

9. Women who smoke

Smoking during pregnancy can increase the risk of preeclampsia. Smoking can damage blood vessels and reduce blood flow to the placenta, which can lead to complications.

10. Women who have had in vitro fertilization (IVF)

Women who have used assisted reproductive technologies such as IVF are at a higher risk of developing preeclampsia. This is because these treatments can lead to changes in blood vessels and blood pressure that can increase the risk of complications.

Conclusion

Preeclampsia is a serious condition that can pose risks to both the mother and the baby during pregnancy. While it can develop in any woman during pregnancy, some women are at a higher risk than others.

By knowing the risk factors for preeclampsia, women can take steps to manage their health during pregnancy and reduce their risk of complications.