Preeclampsia, also known as toxemia, is a pregnancy complication typically detected by high blood pressure and often signs of organ damage, for example, protein in the urine. The most important thing to know is that you don't get preeclampsia because you did something wrong. The condition is largely related to how the placenta develops and interacts with your body during pregnancy. Here, you'll get a practical overview of possible causes, risk factors, and next steps if you become concerned.

Research suggests that preeclampsia is often related to the placenta not establishing optimal blood supply early in pregnancy. When the placenta doesn't function ideally, it can affect blood vessels and create stress in the body, which can manifest as high blood pressure, among other things.

You cannot control the development of the placenta yourself, but you can use knowledge about the mechanism to take symptoms and check-ups seriously. Attend your prenatal appointments and have your blood pressure measured, even if you feel fine.

Some people have a higher risk than others, without necessarily meaning they will develop it. Talk to your doctor or midwife if several of the points apply to you:

• Preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy
• Chronic high blood pressure or kidney disease before pregnancy
• Diabetes or certain autoimmune diseases (e.g., lupus)
• Pregnancy with twins or more
• First-time pregnancy may be associated with higher risk

At your next consultation, ask if you should have more frequent check-ups and what specific symptoms you should react to between appointments. Having a clear action plan can provide peace of mind.

Some people do not experience obvious symptoms, which is why measurements are important. Contact your doctor, out-of-hours doctor, or maternity ward if you experience:

• Persistent severe headache that does not go away
• Visual disturbances (e.g., flickering, blurred vision)
• Pain in the upper abdomen, especially below the right rib cage
• Sudden, pronounced swelling in the face or hands
• Sudden malaise, shortness of breath, or significant worsening of your condition

If in doubt, it's better to call once too often than once too little. It is perfectly legitimate to react to a "something feels different" sensation.

Preeclampsia most often occurs after mid-pregnancy, but in rarer cases can appear earlier or around the time after birth. It is typically detected by a combination of blood pressure measurement and urine test, and sometimes blood tests to assess organ involvement.

Write down symptoms (when they occur and how long they last), and mention them specifically at the consultation. This makes it easier for healthcare professionals to assess whether extra measures are needed.

You cannot diagnose or treat preeclampsia yourself, but you can do three important things:

1. Attend all check-ups and take measurements seriously
2. React to alarm symptoms immediately
3. Ask for clear guidelines on who to contact and when

If you also experience physical discomfort in your back, pelvis, or abdomen, comfort in everyday life can be an important support, although it has nothing to do with treatment. Some pregnant women benefit from a support belt that relieves pressure and provides stability, such as the Maternity Support Belt. You can also see more options under the collection Support Belts.