Your Questions About Preeclampsia, Answered

Up to 8% of pregnancies around the world are affected by a blood pressure condition known as preeclampsia, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Left unmanaged, preeclampsia can put both the pregnant person and their baby at risk of serious health issues.

While a preeclampsia diagnosis can be scary, the condition is well known and well studied, and your doctor will have a plan for you if you develop it. “This isn't like Pandora's box, or a mysterious black box of 'What is this?'” says Ilina Pluym, M.D., a board-certified ob-gyn at UCLA Health, in California. “We know how to manage it once we get the diagnosis, so you can trust your doctor and their ability to keep you and your baby safe.”

Here’s what every pregnant person should know about preeclampsia.