10 pre-eclampsia myths
Pre-eclampsia is a complication of pregnancy characterised by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and potential damage to organs such as the liver, kidneys and brain. Despite its prevalence, affecting up to 5% of pregnancies globally, pre-eclampsia remains shrouded in misconception.
Several celebrities like Kim Kardashian, Mariah Carey, or Adriana Lima (or even Lady Sybil from Downton Abbey!) have experienced pre-eclampsia during their pregnancies. But it can affect anyone.
For celebrities and non-celebrities alike, let’s debunk 10 common myths.
Myth 1: Pre-eclampsia only occurs in first pregnancies
Fact: Whilst pre-eclampsia is more common in first pregnancies, it can occur in subsequent pregnancies; especially if there’s a history of the condition or underlying medical conditions.
Myth 2: Pre-eclampsia only occurs late in pregnancy
Fact: Pre-eclampsia can occur from 20 weeks before, to 6 weeks after delivery.
Myth 3: Only women with a family history can develop pre-eclampsia
Fact: Whilst family history increases risk, pre-eclampsia can affect anyone. Other risk factors include age, multiple pregnancy (twins etc) and pre-existing conditions (e.g. diabetes).
Myth 4: Pre-eclampsia only affects women over 35
Fact: It is true that risk increases before 17 and after age 35 years. But pre-eclampsia can occur at any age. Younger women, especially those with pre-existing conditions, are not immune.
Myth 5: Pre-eclampsia always presents with noticeable symptoms
Fact: A few women may experience ankle/facial swelling, severe headaches, visual changes or abdominal pain; but most remain asymptomatic until diagnosis.
Myth 6: Bed rest can cure pre-eclampsia
Fact: Bed rest may alleviate symptoms, but it does not address underlying causes (which are unknown). Medical monitoring and potential interventions (e.g. inducing labour or Caesarian section) are necessary.
Myth 7: Pre-eclampsia does not affect the baby
Fact: Most babies, especially those who don’t have to be delivered early, may not suffer any problems from pre-eclampsia. However, pre-eclampsia can affect the baby’s growth, or (rarely) cause the baby to die. Other problems include premature birth, low birth weight and potential long-term health consequences.
Myth 8: Delivery is always the cure for pre-eclampsia
Fact: Delivery starts the healing process from pre-eclampsia because it removes the placenta (and we think the placenta is a large part of the ’cause’ of pre-eclampsia. Nonetheless, you can get worse postpartum (or even experience it for the first time), because the placenta has put proteins into your system and your body needs time to mop them up.
In fact, women have had seizures (epileptic fits) as late as several weeks postpartum, which can be life-threatening.
Myth 9: Pre-eclampsia always requires immediate delivery
Fact: Treatment depends on severity, gestational age and foetal health. Doctors may recommend expectant management (monitoring) or bring delivery forward.
Myth 10: Pre-eclampsia disappears after pregnancy.
Fact: Whilst symptoms resolve postpartum, women with pre-eclampsia have an increased risk of future cardiovascular disease and hypertension.
Bonus myths
Myth: Pre-eclampsia is largely caused by a poor diet
Fact: The exact cause of pre-eclampsia remains unclear, but factors like genetics, placental abnormalities and pre-existing medical conditions contribute. A balanced diet supports overall health but doesn’t prevent pre-eclampsia.
Myth: Only overweight women get pre-eclampsia
Fact: Any woman can develop preeclampsia in any pregnancy, regardless of BMI. While obesity can put you at higher risk for developing complications like hypertension and gestational diabetes during pregnancy, it does not guarantee that you will develop it.
It’s important to note, however, that weight gain of more than 2 kg a week can be an indicator of pre-eclampsia. Damaged blood vessels allow more water to leak into and stay in your body’s tissue and not to pass through the kidneys to be excreted.
Summary
We have described 10 pre-eclampsia myths. We hope it has been helpful.
