Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related condition characterized by high blood pressure (also called hypertension) that typically develops after the 20th week of pregnancy. It is often accompanied by signs of damage to organs, most commonly the liver and kidneys, and can lead to complications such as reduced blood flow to the placenta, restricted fetal growth, and in severe cases, it can be life-threatening for both the mother and baby.

Preeclampsia is a relatively common condition during pregnancy, affecting approximately 5-8% of pregnancies worldwide. The prevalence can vary based on factors such as maternal age, underlying health conditions, and socioeconomic factors. While the majority of cases occur in first-time pregnancies, preeclampsia can also occur in subsequent pregnancies. It is important for pregnant individuals to receive regular prenatal care and monitoring to detect and manage preeclampsia in a timely manner, as it can have significant implications for both the mother and the baby's health.

ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) identifies several severe and moderate risk factors for preeclampsia. Severe risk factors include a history of preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy, chronic hypertension, certain medical conditions (such as kidney disease, diabetes, or lupus), and multiple pregnancies (such as twins or triplets). Moderate risk factors include maternal age over 35, obesity, family history of preeclampsia, and interval between pregnancies of more than 10 years. It is important to note that the presence of these risk factors does not guarantee the development of preeclampsia, but they indicate an increased likelihood, requiring appropriate monitoring and care during pregnancy.

Ellement provides screening support for preeclampsia risk assessment as part of the onboarding process. Customers can participate in a brief risk factor screener and receive recommendations to discuss preeclampsia risk with their medical provider.

Symptoms of preeclampsia include high blood pressure, proteinuria (presence of protein in urine), swelling in the hands and face, rapid weight gain, severe headaches, visual disturbances, and upper abdominal pain. It's important to note that some individuals may not experience noticeable symptoms. Regular prenatal care and monitoring are crucial to detect and manage preeclampsia, as it can have significant implications for both the mother and baby's health. If any concerns arise, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and evaluation.

The treatment of preeclampsia depends on the severity and gestational age of the baby. It involves regular monitoring of blood pressure, urine protein levels, and fetal well-being. Medications may be prescribed to manage hypertension. Bed rest and activity modification may be recommended. In severe cases, delivery of the baby may be necessary. Close adherence to healthcare provider's recommendations and regular prenatal care are essential for effective management of preeclampsia.

While there is no known way to guarantee the avoidance of preeclampsia, there are strategies that may help lower the risk or mitigate its severity. These strategies include attending regular prenatal check-ups to monitor blood pressure and overall health, ensuring adequate calcium intake, managing chronic conditions like hypertension, and discussing the potential use of Low-Dose Aspirin with your healthcare provider. It is important to note that while these strategies have been increasingly studied to help lower the risk, they cannot guarantee prevention.

Low-dose aspirin has been studied as a potential intervention to lower the risk of preeclampsia in certain high-risk individuals. It is typically recommended for pregnant individuals who are at a higher risk of developing preeclampsia based on specific factors such as a history of preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy, chronic hypertension, certain medical conditions, or multiple pregnancies (e.g., twins or triplets).

The exact mechanism by which low-dose aspirin reduces the risk of preeclampsia is not fully understood. However, it is believed to work by improving blood flow to the placenta, reducing inflammation, and enhancing the function of blood vessels. These effects may help mitigate the development of preeclampsia or lessen its severity.

It is important to note that the use of Low-Dose Aspirin for preeclampsia prevention should be discussed and recommended by your healthcare provider. They can evaluate individual risk factors and determine the appropriate dosage and duration of aspirin therapy. Not all pregnant individuals will benefit from LDA, so personalized medical advice is essential.