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Pre-eclampsia

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Pre-eclampsia

A serious pregnancy complication characterised by high blood pressure (≥140/90 mmHg) and signs of organ damage, typically occurring after 20 weeks of gestation. Associated with excessive gestational weight gain.

Definition

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy complication defined by new-onset hypertension (blood pressure ≥ 140/90 mmHg on two readings 4 hours apart) occurring after 20 weeks of gestation, accompanied by one or more features of organ involvement: proteinuria (protein in urine), thrombocytopenia, impaired liver function, renal insufficiency, pulmonary oedema, or new-onset headache/visual disturbance.

It affects approximately 2–8% of pregnancies worldwide and is one of the leading causes of maternal and perinatal mortality globally, including in India.

Key Things to Know

  • Pre-eclampsia can cause preterm birth and IUGR through placental insufficiency.
  • Blood pressure is checked at every antenatal visit specifically to detect early signs.
  • Staying within IOM gestational weight gain targets is one modifiable risk factor.
  • Use the Pregnancy BMI Calculator to monitor your weight gain and flag over-target gain early.

Related Calculators

Pregnancy BMI Calculator →Calculate your pre-pregnancy BMI and get IOM-recommended gestational weight gain range. Track your current pregnancy weight gain and stay on target for a healthy pregnancy.
BMI Calculator →Calculate your BMI instantly using kg/lbs and cm/ft. Includes BMI category and healthy weight range using WHO standards.

Related Terms

Gestational Weight GainGestational Weight Gain (GWG)IOM GuidelinesInstitute of Medicine Gestational Weight Gain Guidelines (2009)Preterm BirthPreterm Birth (Premature Birth)IUGRIntrauterine Growth Restriction

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Excessive gestational weight gain — particularly in women who start pregnancy overweight or obese — is an established risk factor for pre-eclampsia. The biological mechanism involves increased insulin resistance, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction associated with excess adipose tissue and fluid retention. Staying within the IOM-recommended weight gain range for your BMI category, tracked with the [Pregnancy BMI Calculator](/pregnancy-bmi-calculator/), reduces but does not eliminate this risk.
Key warning signs include: sudden swelling of the hands, face, or feet (beyond normal pregnancy swelling); persistent severe headache not relieved by paracetamol; visual disturbances (blurring, flashing lights, spots); pain in the upper right abdomen (below the ribs); and sudden weight gain of more than 1 kg in a week. If you experience any of these, contact your OB-GYN or go to a hospital immediately — pre-eclampsia can deteriorate rapidly.
Yes. Pre-eclampsia impairs placental blood flow, which can restrict foetal growth ([IUGR](/glossary/iugr/)) and reduce oxygen supply to the baby. If the condition is severe or doesn't respond to management, the baby may need to be delivered early ([preterm birth](/glossary/preterm-birth/)), sometimes as early as 34 weeks. After delivery, pre-eclampsia typically resolves, though blood pressure monitoring continues for several weeks postpartum.
There is no guaranteed prevention, but low-dose aspirin (75–150 mg/day), started before 16 weeks, has been shown to reduce the risk by approximately 10–20% in high-risk women (those with prior pre-eclampsia, chronic hypertension, kidney disease, diabetes, or multiples). Adequate calcium intake (1.5–2 g/day), moderate exercise, and maintaining appropriate gestational weight gain also reduce risk. Your OB-GYN will assess your individual risk profile at the booking visit.