Pre-eclampsia in special cases (pregnancy, children, elderly)

Pre-eclampsia is a condition of pregnancy, but its effects reach different groups of people in different ways.

Pregnancy

• It usually appears after 20 weeks, and can appear in the first weeks after birth
• Twin pregnancies, a first pregnancy, and women with high blood pressure, diabetes or kidney disease have higher risk
• Close monitoring, admission and timed delivery protect mother and baby
• Many women need to deliver early, and babies may need special care

Adolescent mothers and older mothers

Risk is higher for mothers under 18 and over 35. Early and regular antenatal care matters even more.

Babies and children

• Babies of mothers with pre-eclampsia may be born early or small, and need neonatal care
• They may need monitoring of feeding, blood sugar, temperature and breathing
• Long-term health is usually good, but regular paediatric follow-up is advised

Mothers in later life

Women who had pre-eclampsia have a higher chance of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and kidney disease later. Yearly blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol checks are advised, with a healthy lifestyle.

Future pregnancies

Risk of recurrence is higher. See a doctor before conceiving and begin antenatal care early. Low-dose aspirin may be advised.