What is the main concern with preeclampsia?

The main concern with preeclampsia is that it may lead to complications for both the mother and the baby. Preeclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, often the liver and kidneys, typically occurring after the 20th week of pregnancy. If left untreated, it can escalate to eclampsia, which includes seizures and can be life-threatening for both mother and child. Additionally, preeclampsia can result in inadequate blood flow to the placenta, potentially leading to growth restrictions in the fetus, premature birth, and other severe outcomes.

In contrast, while the mother's nutrition can be impacted by the overall health conditions during pregnancy, preeclampsia directly poses more serious risks. It does not generally cause minor discomfort; rather, it is a serious medical condition that requires close monitoring and management. Furthermore, preeclampsia can occur before or after the first trimester, which makes the notion that it occurs only in the first trimester inaccurate.