May is the month the Preeclampsia Foundation spearheads increased awareness about a life-threatening hypertensive disorder occurring in up to 8 percent of pregnancies. Preeclampsia is a condition that pregnant women develop marked by the sudden onset of high blood pressure. Pregnant women experiencing preeclampsia have a high level of protein in their urine accompanied by swelling in the feet, legs, hands, and face around the eyes.

Preeclampsia Awareness

Hypertension during pregnancy can result in:

• Premature delivery
• Miscarriage
• Seizures
• Liver failure
• Sudden onset of bad health

Research has shown that women who have experienced a traumatic pregnancy have up to 10 times the risk of experiencing:

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Postpartum Depression
• Postpartum Anxiety

It is important that the voices of these women be heard to help other expectant mothers become aware of the signs of preeclampsia.

Preeclampsia Symptoms 

Signs and symptoms of preeclampsia during pregnancy – or after delivery – include:

• High blood pressure
• Protein in urine
• Swelling of hands
• Swelling of face around the eyes
• Over 5 pounds of weight gain within 1 week
• Persistent headache
• Sudden change in vision – seeing spots, flashing lights or loss of eyesight
• Nausea and vomiting
• Upper right stomach pain mistaken for indigestion or the flu
• Difficult breathing – gasping or panting
• Hyperreflexia

Fertility Specialists Spreading Preeclampsia Awareness

The fertility specialists at New Hope Fertility NYC are very diligent in making their patients aware of the signs and symptoms of preeclampsia. As a global leader in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART), our fertility team is committed to providing world class fertility care and supporting patients through every step of pregnancy.