Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder that can occurs during pregnancy and postpartum period and affects the mother and the fetus. Globally, preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are the main cause of maternal and neonatal illness and death. In the Region, according to data from the World Health Organization, more than 20% of maternal deaths are caused by hypertensive problems.
Prenatal care is essential for the diagnosis and management of preeclampsia. Symptoms associated with this disease include swelling, sudden weight gain, headaches and changes in vision. However, not all women with preeclampsia report these symptoms (and vice versa).
Actually preeclampsia occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy until up to six weeks postpartum, although in rare cases it can occur before 20 weeks.
For technical information, see the following publication:
WHO recommendations for prevention and treatment of pre-eclampsia and eclampsia
Guía para la atención de emergencias obstétricas (available in Spanish only)
