Preeclampsia is defined as new onset hypertension (high blood pressure) after 20 weeks’ gestation with evidence of problems with the mother’s organs, problems with the placenta, or protein in the urine, indicating increased strain on the kidneys.
Preeclampsia is a major cause of ill health during pregnancy, and can result in the baby growing slowly during pregnancy, or being born prematurely. In some cases, pre-eclampsia also increases the risk for stillbirth. For this reason, having regular check-ups during pregnancy is important, so that the medical team can identify changes in blood pressure early and monitor mum and bub more closely.