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About PreeclampsiaSigns and SymptomsFrequently Asked Questions Statistics Preeclampsia & Heart Disease What is Preeclampsia? Preeclampsia is a disorder that occurs only during pregnancy and the postpartum period and affects both the mother and the unborn baby. Affecting at least 5-8% of all pregnancies, it is a rapidly progressive condition characterized by high blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine. Swelling, sudden weight gain, headaches and changes in vision are important symptoms; however, some women with rapidly advancing disease report few symptoms. 
Typically, preeclampsia occurs after 20 weeks gestation (in the late 2nd or 3rd
trimesters or middle to late pregnancy), though it can occur earlier. Proper prenatal care is essential to diagnose and manage preeclampsia. Preeclampsia, Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH) and toxemia are closely related conditions. HELLP Syndrome and eclampsia are
other manifestations of the same syndrome. It is important to note that research
shows that more women die from preeclampsia than eclampsia and one is not
necessarily more serious than the other.
Preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are a leading global cause of maternal and infant illness and death. By conservative estimates, these disorders are responsible for 76,000 deaths each year. Last Updated: August 22, 2007
© 2000 - 2007 Preeclampsia Foundation
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