Preeclamsia

Preeclampsia, a narrowing of the blood vessels, is a dangerous condition unique to pregnancy. Because of this narrowing, the condition can lead to decreased blood flow to the kidneys, brain, liver, retina, and placenta. In the United States, it is the leading cause of both fetal complications and maternal and fetal death.

 

Symptoms include high blood pressure, swelling of the hands and face, and protein in the urine. Some risk factors for the condition include chronic high blood pressure and obesity prior to pregnancy, as well as having developed high blood pressure or preeclampsia during a previous pregnancy. The only definite cure for this condition is delivering the fetus.