Each May, healthcare professionals around the world observe Preeclampsia Awareness Month, a campaign led by organisations such as the Preeclampsia Foundation. Established in the early 2000s, this initiative was created to improve awareness, promote early detection, and reduce the serious complications associated with this condition. The campaign is often represented by navy and hot pink colours and a purple and blue ribbon, symbolising strength, urgency, and maternal health advocacy.
Despite these efforts, preeclampsia remains one of the leading causes of complications during pregnancy. Understanding what it is—and what it is not—is the first step toward protecting both mother and baby.
What Is Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a condition that typically develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy and is characterised by high blood pressure along with signs that other organs may be affected, commonly protein in the urine, indicating kidney damage and other signs of organ damage. It can also impact the placenta, which is essential for the baby’s growth and oxygen supply.
While some women may experience mild forms, preeclampsia can progress rapidly and become life-threatening if not properly managed or if left untreated. In severe cases, it may lead to complications such as stroke, organ failure, or a condition known as eclampsia, which involves seizures.
Why Is It Important?
Preeclampsia is not just “high blood pressure in pregnancy.” It is a multi-system disorder that can affect nearly every organ in the body. For the baby, it may reduce blood flow through the placenta, leading to:
Poor growth/growth restriction
Low birth weight
Premature birth
Placental abruption
For the mother, risks include:
Severe hypertension
Liver or kidney dysfunction
Blood clotting problems (HELLP syndrome)
Increased risk of future cardiovascular disease
Globally, preeclampsia affects approximately 5–8% of pregnancies, and its impact can be even more significant in regions with limited access to prenatal care.
Who Is at Risk?
Preeclampsia can develop in any pregnancy—even in women who appear completely healthy. However, certain factors increase the likelihood:
First pregnancy
Multiple pregnancy (twins or more)
History of preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy
Chronic conditions such as:
Hypertension
Diabetes
Kidney disease
Obesity
Autoimmune Disorders
Use of IVF
Maternal age under 18 or over 35
Family history of preeclampsia
It’s important to emphasise that having one or more of these risk factors does not mean a woman will develop preeclampsia—but it does mean closer monitoring is essential.
Can It Happen Without Warning?
Yes. One of the challenges with preeclampsia is that it can sometimes develop silently, without obvious symptoms in the early stages. This is why routine prenatal visits are so important. Simple checks like blood pressure measurement and urine testing can detect early signs before complications arise.
The Role of Prenatal Care
Regular antenatal care is the most effective way to detect preeclampsia early and to identify patients at higher risk. At each visit, your healthcare provider will:
Monitor your blood pressure
Check for protein in your urine
Assess your overall health and your baby’s growth
Early detection allows for closer monitoring, timely treatment, and decisions about the safest time for delivery if needed.
A Final Word
Preeclampsia can be serious, but with awareness, early detection, and proper care, outcomes can be greatly improved. Preeclampsia Awareness Month serves as a reminder that education is a powerful tool—one that helps women recognise risks, attend regular check-ups, and seek care when it matters most.
If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, staying informed and maintaining consistent prenatal care are among the most important steps you can take to protect your health and your baby’s future.
In our next article, we will discuss warning signs of preeclampsia you should never ignore.
Dr Sherene Kalloo
MDW, MBBS, DGO, DM, FACOG
Specialist Obstetrician & Gynaecologist
