Preeclampsia

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Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a condition in which pregnant women develop high blood pressure after 20 weeks of pregnancy. It is often accompanied by protein in the urine and other signs that organs are being affected, such as severe headaches, vision changes, and upper abdominal pain.

This potentially life-threatening condition can interfere with delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the fetus, resulting in a low birth weight. The risks of high blood pressure to the mother include the possibility of serious kidney and liver problems and decreased blood platelets, which aid with blood clotting. Preeclampsia is managed with medication and delivery planning. Delivery of the fetus can help resolve the condition.

In some cases, preeclampsia can progress to a more severe condition known as eclampsia, which carries the additional risk of seizures. Seizures can be life-threatening to both the mother and baby. The high blood pressure from eclampsia also creates a risk for the separation of the placenta from the uterus. Immediate treatment is required for eclampsia.

Why choose UAB Medicine

UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology offers complete women’s health care, delivered by physicians and nurses dedicated to excellence. Our physicians are nationally recognized specialists in their fields, so you can rest assured that you are receiving the most advanced care available. Our program is consistently ranked among the best of its kind in the country by U.S. News & World Report.

As part of the UAB Division of Women’s Reproductive Healthcare, UAB Obstetrics and Gynecology’s services range from complete obstetric care to the medical and surgical treatment of complex gynecological concerns. Because UAB Medicine is a major center for research, patients may have access to promising new techniques and treatments not available at other medical centers. Our physicians are here for you at every stage of life, from your first gynecological exam to delivering your baby and helping guide you through menopause.

The Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialists at the UAB Women & Infants Center are available on site 24/7 to manage problems associated with high-risk pregnancies. Our physicians are experts at managing conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, Rh sensitization, multiple births, premature delivery, and other potential complications. Patients have access to cutting-edge treatments that may not be available elsewhere, which can reduce a woman’s chance of having another preterm birth by one-third to one-half.

We are among the nation’s most advanced MFM programs and one of only 14 centers participating in the national Maternal Fetal Medicine Units Network for high-risk pregnancy research. Patients have access to the most up-to-date care, including first-trimester diagnosis, genetic testing and counseling, and 4D ultrasound and fetal imaging. Our team is staffed by board-certified MFM specialists, along with certified genetics specialists.