Preeclampsia: causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment

Preeclampsia (also called gestosis or pregnancy toxemia) is a serious complication of pregnancy characterized by a triad of symptoms: edema, increased blood pressure, and the presence of proteins in the urine (proteinuria). This condition generally develops after the 20th week of pregnancy and can have serious consequences for both the mother and fetus. After childbirth, the symptoms of gestosis decrease and usually disappear. According to statistics, gestosis affects about 5% of pregnant women and remains one of the leading causes of maternal mortality.

Causes and symptoms of gestosis

The exact causes of preeclampsia are not yet fully understood. There are several theories to explain the occurrence of this complication: endocrinological, infectious, intoxication, renal, and placental. However, none of them provide a definitive answer to the mechanism of gestosis development.

The risk factors that may contribute to the development of gestosis are as follows:

• Multiple pregnancies: carrying two or more fetuses increases the strain on the woman's body.
• Advanced first pregnancy: women who become pregnant for the first time after the age of 35 are at risk.
• Chronic diseases such as hypertension, kidney diseases, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, obesity, hepatitis, and cholecystitis increase the likelihood of gestosis.
• History of preeclampsia: if a woman has a history of gestosis, the risk of recurrence increases.
• Heredity: the presence of gestosis in close family members can also play a role.
• Lifestyle: chronic stress, smoking, and other toxic exposures contribute to the onset of complications.

The symptoms of gestosis can vary depending on the severity of the disease. The main signs are as follows:

• Increased blood pressure is one of the primary symptoms, which may be accompanied by headaches and dizziness.
• Swelling is most often observed in the legs, but it can extend to the face, arms, and other parts of the body.
• Proteinuria, meaning the presence of proteins in the urine, indicating impaired kidney function.
• Oliguria: which is the decrease in the volume of urine excreted (less than 400 ml per day).
• Neurological disturbances such as vision deterioration, headaches, and confusion.
• Eclampsia = a serious condition accompanied by seizures and loss of consciousness.
• Cyanosis and pulmonary edema - in extremely severe cases.

Diagnosis and treatment of preeclampsia:

The diagnosis of gestosis is based on a comprehensive examination of the pregnant woman. The doctor evaluates the following parameters

• Blood pressure which should not exceed 135/85 mm Hg.
• Urinalysis to detect proteins and assess kidney function.
• Blood biochemical analysis assesses the condition of the liver, kidneys, and other organs.
• Hemostasis parameters to detect blood coagulation disorders.
• General blood analysis with determination of concentration indices.

In addition, examinations may be prescribed:

• An ultrasound of maternal and fetal organs to assess the condition of the placenta and fetal development.
• Doppler ultrasound which studies the blood flow in the mother's and fetus's blood vessels.
• Analysis of markers of systemic inflammation and endothelial dysfunction to assess the severity of the disease.

The treatment of gestosis aims to control symptoms and prevent complications. It includes

• A therapeutic and protective diet to reduce physical and emotional strain.
• Normalization of blood pressure using antihypertensive medications.
• Relief of vasospasm to improve blood circulation.
• Correction of circulating blood volume using infusion therapy.
• Normalization of vital organ function kidneys, liver, heart.
• Correction of water-salt balance to eliminate edema.
• Normalization of metabolism for proteins, carbohydrates, and acid-base balance.

In case of severe gestosis during childbirth, adequate anesthesia and prevention of blood loss are necessary. After childbirth, treatment may continue depending on the woman's condition.

Preeclampsia after IVF (in vitro fertilization)

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a modern method of infertility treatment that has enabled many women to become mothers. However, pregnancy after IVF has its own particularities, one of which is the increased risk of developing gestosis. This is due to several factors:

1. Hormonal stimulation: the IVF technique often involves intensive hormonal therapy, which can affect the functioning of the endocrine system.
2. Multiple pregnancies: after IVF, the probability of multiple pregnancies increases, which itself is a risk factor for gestosis.
3. Chronic diseases: women undergoing IVF often have comorbidities (such as endocrine disorders) that increase the risk of complications.

The symptoms of gestosis after IVF do not differ from those of a natural pregnancy. However, these patients require particularly careful monitoring, as they have a higher risk of severe gestosis. Prevention includes

• Regular monitoring of blood pressure to timely detect hypertension.
• Monitoring protein levels in urine for early diagnosis of proteinuria.
• Adhering to a dietary regimen with restrictions on salt and fluids to prevent edema.
• Taking vitamins and trace elements to maintain normal metabolism.

Assistance from specialists at the "NatuVitro" clinic

The obstetricians and gynecologists at the "NatuVitro" clinic have extensive experience in managing complicated pregnancies, including cases of gestosis and pregnancies after IVF. The specialists perform complex diagnostics and develop individualized treatment plans aimed at preserving the health of both the mother and child. If necessary, the clinic offers modern therapies and rehabilitation methods to minimize risks and ensure a safe pregnancy.