Pre-eclampsia

This is a condition where the placenta has problems establishing in the womb. As a result. Later in the pregnancy, the placenta starts to produce toxins, which can affect every organ in the body. It can affect the vessels, leading to high blood pressure and fluid (oedema) leaking from vessels all over the body (not just the ankles). The kidneys are affected and leak valuable protein into the urine. The liver and platelets in the blood can be affected (HELLP syndrome), and the brain can be affected, leading the patient to feel unwell, often with headaches and flashing lights. If not controlled, the woman may develop eclampsia, where they become unconscious and start to have seizures or fits. Often the only way to help the woman is to end the pregnancy, deliver the baby and most importantly, the placenta, which is the source of the toxins.