Preeclampsia Awareness Month | Bella Baby Photography

Did you know that May is Preeclampsia Awareness Month? Preeclampsia is a condition that complicates between 5 to 8 percent of all pregnancies. It is a hypertensive disorder that typically develops in the second half of pregnancy. If untreated, it can be life-threatening. The good news is that most women with preeclampsia deliver a healthy baby and fully recover. However, prompt medical attention is necessary. At Bella Baby Photography, we know that expecting moms already have a lot on their plate, so here are three things every pregnant woman should know about preeclampsia:

ANYONE can get preeclampsia, but there are certain risk factors.
Risk Factors for preeclampsia include:

• A personal or family history of preeclampsia
  
• A first pregnancy
  
• Being in your teens or over the age of 40
  
• Being pregnant with multiples
  
• Having high blood pressure
  
• Having a body mass index over 30
  
• Being diabetic
  

That said, keep in mind that there are plenty of perfectly healthy women with pregnancies that appear healthy, who will develop preeclampsia without having any risk factor.

There are certain symptoms to look out for:

• High blood pressure
  
• Protein in the urine
  
• Excessive swelling (edema) of the hands, feet and face
  
• Rapid weight gain
  
• Severe headache
  
• Visual disturbances like flashing lights or blurred vision
  
• Pain in the upper right section of the abdomen and/or shoulder pain
  
• Pain or a burning sensation behind the sternum
  
• Nausea or vomiting
  
• Confusion or anxiety
  
• Shortness of breath
  

If left untreated, there can be serious complications, including:

• Kidney problems for the mother
  
• Dangerously high blood pressure
  
• A low birth weight baby
  
• Placental abruption–where the placenta detaches from the uterus
  
• Abnormal liver function tests
  
• Seizures
  
• Preterm delivery
  
• Stroke
  
• Temporary loss of vision
  
• Rupture of the liver
  
• Maternal and/or fetal death

This May, if you’re expecting a baby, make sure you know about preeclampsia. It’s important to talk to your doctor about any symptoms of preeclampsia you experience during pregnancy. Your doctor might put you on bed rest or order an early induction depending upon the severity of symptoms.

And if you’re ready to take some maternity photos or newborn pictures in the comfort of your own home, visit our website today to learn more about our Bella Life Portraits!