Had it twice--will it get worse if I try again?

[expert on call]

In 1996 I was pregnant with my daughter. When I was 35 weeks pregnant I developed pre-eclampsia. My doctor induced labor 2 weeks later. In 2001 I was pregnant again. My doctor told me that he didn't think that I would have a problem with pre-eclampsia in this pregnancy. At 28 weeks I did develop pre-eclampsia. But this time all of my symptoms were much more and they started much sooner. I was ordered to bedrest and when that didn't help I was put in the hospital, I was also having contractions. I was there for three days and then they let me go home. Four days later my doctor put me back in the hospital and induced labor. I still had 4 weeks to go. Everything turned out okay but my doctor told me that I shouldn't have anymore kids because it will just get worse with each pregnancy. My question is ...is my doctor right or is there no way of knowing? Thank you.

Angela P.

[expert on call]

There is no way of knowing for sure. If a woman has preeclampsia with one pregnancy, particularly preterm preeclampsia, her risk is increased. If you have another baby, you will probably have preeclampsia. This does not mean you cannot have a baby. If you have preeclampsia at term or near term you can have a good outcome.

You should see a specialist in maternal fetal medicine. The closest would probably be in Denver. I am guessing that you are 3 or 4 hours away. It is probably worth having a consultation before you get pregnant. More information at:

http://www.uchsc.edu/obgyn/obstetrics.htm


Expert on Call

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