Preeclampsia is a relatively common complication during pregnancy, which is around 2-8 out of 100 pregnancies (2-8%). Preeclampsia is a condition that is only obtained during pregnancy (after pregnancy at the age of 20 weeks) up to 6 weeks postpartum. Preeclampsia can have a short-term and long-term adverse effect on yourself (pregnant women) and also on the fetus.
The exact cause of preeclampsia is unknown but basically the problem is in the placenta. Placenta connector of pregnant women with their fetuses and placenta is also a channel of food and oxygen from the blood of the mother to the fetus.
In preeclampsia, the placenta does not get enough blood, it cannot fullfill the demand as needed.
Most women with preeclampsia are only slightly affected, but only a small percentage of women are seriously affected by preeclampsia (seizures / eclampsia).
The diagnosis of preeclampsia is basically enforced on the basis of:
high blood pressure
The presence of proteins that leak then it flowing and mix with the urine. In some conditions of preeclampsia, the fetus can stay healthy. But in some circumstances, the fetus needs to be monitored about the supply of nutrients and oxygen to maintain its growth in the womb. Sometimes in severe preeclampsia, the fetus needs to be born early, so that it is still in a state of prematurity.
Basically Preeclampsia can affect anyone, but there are several risk factors which have a big contribution, such as:
First pregnancy
If you, your mother or your sister have a history of preeclampsia
You have a body mass index of 35 or more
You are 40 years or older
Multiple pregnancies such as twins 2, 3 or more
Have medical problems such as kidney problems or diabetes
IVF / IVF pregnancy
Prevention of preeclampsia will be optimal if done before 16 weeks' gestation. Preeclampsia screening is done in the first trimester precisely between the ages of 11-14 weeks.
This screening examination includes:
- maternal health history and demographic information (height, weight, ethnicity, smoking history)
- blood pressure measurement from both arms
- blood test - PLGF (Placental Growth Factor) and PAPP-A (Pregnancy-Associated Plasma Protein).
- Ultrasound examination (maternal blood flow - uterine artery)
- Preeclampsia screening is done on the same day as Down syndrome screening and requires your blood examination. Then the doctor will combine the results of the examination with other data (history of maternal health, blood pressure and USG) and will tell the results to you.
Low risk
Low risk means that you are less likely to get preeclampsia in your pregnancy. But keep in mind, low risk does not mean you are not likely to get preeclampsia. Low risk means you only continue the pregnancy checkup as usual.
High risk
High risk does not mean you definitely get preeclampsia. But by knowing your pregnancy is at high risk, it is possible to do prevention and also help monitor your pregnancy
Source: rsia bunda
