Postpartum Preeclampsia
Postpartum preeclampsia is a type of hypertension (high blood pressure) that develops after childbirth in women who had normal blood pressure during pregnancy. It is a rare but potentially serious condition that affects a small percentage of women in the weeks and months following delivery.
While the majority of women diagnosed with preeclampsia will give birth to healthy infants and make a full recovery, some may encounter complications that can pose a significant threat to their health. The condition can quickly escalate to severe preeclampsia, eclampsia, or HELLP syndrome. In these cases, delivery through either expectant management or prompt intervention is essential.
It’s important to note that giving birth does not guarantee a cure for preeclampsia. Women who have not experienced high blood pressure during pregnancy may still develop the condition postpartum, and it’s crucial for mothers to remain vigilant of their health even after delivery. Knowing the warning signs can help prevent severe outcomes and preserve one’s well-being.
What is postpartum preeclampsia?
Postpartum preeclampsia is a type of hypertension (high blood pressure) that develops after childbirth in women who had normal blood pressure during pregnancy. It is a rare but potentially serious condition that affects a small percentage of women in the weeks and months following delivery.
What causes postpartum preeclampsia?
The exact cause of postpartum preeclampsia is not well understood, but it is thought to result from changes in the blood vessels in the placenta and uterus after delivery.
Risk factors for postpartum preeclampsia include a history of hypertension, pre-existing hypertension, gestational hypertension (pregnancy-induced hypertension), pre-eclampsia (hypertension and protein in the urine during pregnancy), having a large baby or multiple pregnancies, carrying a baby who is a past due date, and being overweight or obese.
How common is PPP?
Postpartum preeclampsia is a relatively uncommon condition, affecting approximately 1-2% of all women who have had a baby. However, it can be more common in certain populations, such as women who had preeclampsia during pregnancy or who had a complicated pregnancy or delivery.
What are the symptoms of PPP?
The symptoms can include:
- High blood pressure (140/90 mmHg or higher). A sudden increase in blood pressure after delivery may be accompanied by severe headaches, blurred vision, or dizziness.
- Protein in the urine:
- Swelling: Swelling in the face, hands, or legs can occur due to fluid buildup in the body.
- Shortness of breath: This can occur due to fluid buildup in the lungs.
- Severe headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Decreased urination
- Pain in your upper belly, usually under the ribs on the right side.
How is PPP diagnosed?
Postpartum preeclampsia is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and laboratory tests. During a physical examination, a healthcare provider may check for high blood pressure, swelling, and protein in the urine. The following laboratory tests may also be performed:
- Urine protein test: A sample of urine is taken to check for the presence of protein, which can indicate kidney damage.
- Blood tests: Blood tests may be performed to check for elevated levels of liver enzymes and platelets, which can indicate liver or blood-clotting problems.
- Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart that can help assess the function of the heart and blood vessels.
- Chest X-ray: A chest X-ray may be performed to check for fluid buildup in the lungs.
FAQs:
Postpartum preeclampsia is treated with medications to lower blood pressure and prevent seizures, along with close monitoring of symptoms. Bed rest and close monitoring of the mother and baby may also be recommended. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary for intravenous medications and close monitoring. The treatment goal is to prevent complications and ensure the mother and baby’s well-being.
There is no sure way to prevent postpartum preeclampsia, but having a healthy pregnancy and lifestyle can help reduce the risk. Good prenatal care, regular check-ups, controlling chronic conditions, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, and managing stress can all be helpful. If a woman had preeclampsia during pregnancy, close monitoring post-delivery is important to detect and treat postpartum preeclampsia early.
Signs and symptoms of preeclampsia most often go away within 6 weeks after delivery. However, the high blood pressure sometimes gets worse the first few days after delivery. You are still at risk for preeclampsia for up to 6 weeks after delivery.
Postpartum Preeclampsia: Moms are Still at Risk After Delivery. Most women with preeclampsia will deliver healthy babies and fully recover. However, some women will experience complications, several of which may be life-threatening.
Normal: A normal, healthy blood pressure reading is 120/80. Once we creep over that, the brain’s ability to regulate blood flow is impacted at varying levels, depending on the patient. High: During pregnancy and a few weeks after, your blood pressure may be 140/90. This is considered high, but not severe.