>THIS is a disorder that occurs only during pregnancy and the postpartum (after childbirth) period. It affects both the mother and the unborn baby and occurs in 5 to 8 per cent of all pregnancies.
Pre-eclampsia is characterised by high-blood pressure and the presence of protein in the urine. Although swelling or edema (usually the face and hands), sudden weight gain, headaches and vision problems are symptomatic of the condition, there are some women who report few symptoms.
At times, early childbirth may be induced or a Caesarean carried out in the best interest of the baby, mother or both.
While there is no cure for pre-eclampsia, it is important to closely monitor the condition and manage it through
medication.
This article was first published in tabla! on Dec 5, 2008.
