5 Common Misconceptions About Preeclampsia
What is Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is one of the most serious complications that can occur during pregnancy, yet it remains widely misunderstood. Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy affecting approximately 5–8% of pregnancies globally. It can develop suddenly, often after 20 weeks of gestation. It can lead to life-threatening complications for both the pregnant person and baby if left untreated.
🔍 Know the Signs:
High blood pressure
Swelling of hands/face
Sudden weight gain
Severe headaches
Vision changes
In honour of World Preeclampsia Day (May 22), let’s bust some of the most common myths and misconceptions about preeclampsia and replace them with the facts every expecting family should know.
💭 Misconception 1: “Preeclampsia only happens in first-time pregnancies.”
✅ The Truth:
While first pregnancies are a risk factor, preeclampsia can occur in any pregnancy, including second or third pregnancies, especially if the person has other illnesses such as chronic hypertension, lupus, diabetes, or a history of preeclampsia.
💭 Misconception 2: “It’s just high blood pressure.”
✅ The Truth:
Preeclampsia is more than just high blood pressure. It can involve damage to the kidneys, liver, brain, and placenta. Many people with preeclampsia also experience swelling, vision changes, and even seizures (eclampsia) in severe cases.
💭 Misconception 3: “If I feel fine, I can’t have preeclampsia.”
✅ The Truth:
Preeclampsia can be silent. Some individuals have no symptoms at all. That’s why regular prenatal visits and blood pressure checks are critical. Often, the first sign is elevated blood pressure at a routine appointment.
💭 Misconception 4: “Preeclampsia ends once the baby is born.”
✅ The Truth:
While birth of the baby and placenta is the only way to get rid of preeclampsia, preeclampsia can persist or even develop postnatally. This is known as postnatal preeclampsia, and it can appear up to six weeks after birth, requiring urgent medical care.
💭 Misconception 5: “If I’m high risk, low-dose aspirin will stop me from developing preeclampsia”
✅ The Truth:
While not all cases are preventable, there has been some evidence to show that taking low-dose aspirin can reduce the likelihood of developing preeclampsia
It’s important to have a conversation with a midwife to understand what risk factors you have that may increase your chances of developing preeclampsia.
You can then decide for yourself if low-dose aspirin would be suitable for your individual circumstances.
You should be informed of the early signs of preeclampsia developing to know when to seek medical care.
Final Thoughts
Preeclampsia is a serious but manageable condition when it’s recognised early and treated appropriately. Dispelling myths is essential to help more families recognise warning signs, advocate for their health, and seek timely care.
If you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your healthcare professional about your individual circumstances and what you can do to stay healthy.
#WorldPreeclampsiaDay #PreeclampsiaAwareness #PerinatalHealth #PregnancyMyths #HealthyPregnancy
