Will I get pre-eclampsia again?
I have a four year old son but when I was pregnant with him I developed preeclampsia and my blood pressure never returned to normal. I am prescribed medication for my blood pressure. My partner and I would like to try for another baby but I am frightened. Is it safe for me to have another baby? Will I get pre-eclampsia again? Is my high blood pressure going to be a problem? A mother asks me.
I completely understand why you are worried and I advise that you make an appointment with your GP and sit down and discuss these worries before making any decisions. The more information you are armed with the easier it will be for you to make that choice.
From looking at various resource sites online there seems to be contradicting advice.
You have a higher risk of developing pre-eclampsia if:You have had high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia during a previous pregnancy. (patient.co.uk)
The findings suggest the risk of having it again is approximately 20%, however experts cite a range from 5-80%, depending on when you had it in a prior pregnancy, and how severe it was. (preeclampsia.org)
“The earlier in pregnancy that preeclampsia occurs and the more severe it is, the more likely that it’s going to recur,” says Dr. John T.( babyzone.com)
Your GP will also be able to advise you if the medication you are currently taking for your high blood pressure is suitable to take during a pregnancy.
Because you have suffered with preeclampsia before, the health professionals will be able to take extra care of you and offer you extra check-ups.
Pre-eclampsia is a complication of pregnancy. Women with pre-eclampsia have high blood pressure, protein in their urine, and may develop other symptoms and problems. The more severe pre-eclampsia is, the greater the risk of serious complications to both mother and baby. The exact cause of pre-eclampsia is uncertain but it is thought to be due to a problem with the afterbirth (placenta). The only way to cure pre-eclampsia completely is by delivering (giving birth to) your baby. Medication may be advised to help prevent complications of pre-eclampsia. More Information.
Have you suffered with preeclampsia? Did you develop it also in subsequent pregnancies?
