Understanding & Preventing Preeclampsia: A guide for a Healthy Pregnancy
preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication, but understanding your risk factors and proactive steps you can take can considerably improve your outcome. As a healthcare professional dedicated to maternal health, I want to provide you with clear, actionable information to navigate this important topic. This article will cover who is at risk, how to reduce that risk, and resources available to support you.
Who is at Higher Risk for Preeclampsia?
Certain factors can increase your likelihood of developing preeclampsia.It’s important to be aware of these, so you can discuss them with your healthcare provider.
You’re considered high-risk if you’ve experienced preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy. Additionally, carrying multiples (twins, triplets, etc.) automatically elevates your risk.
Furthermore, pre-existing health conditions play a role. These include:
High blood pressure (chronic hypertension)
Diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2)
Kidney disease
Autoimmune disorders (like lupus or rheumatoid arthritis)
Other factors to consider are:
A family history of preeclampsia.
Being 35 years or older at the time of conception.
Conceiving thru in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Crucially, social and structural factors also contribute. Financial hardship, lack of consistent healthcare access, and being African American or Black are all associated with increased risk. This isn’t due to inherent racial differences, but rather the cumulative impact of systemic racism, chronic stress, and inequities in healthcare. We must acknowledge these disparities to address them effectively.
The Power of Low-Dose Aspirin: A Preventative Measure
Fortunately, a simple intervention can significantly reduce your risk and the severity of preeclampsia: low-dose aspirin. If you fall into one of the high-risk categories, your doctor may recommend starting a daily low-dose aspirin early in your pregnancy - typically around 12 weeks.
However, always discuss this with your provider first.
Raising Awareness: The Low Dose, Big benefits™ campaign
Despite its effectiveness, low-dose aspirin is frequently enough underutilized in pregnancy care. This is often due to a lack of awareness among both healthcare providers and patients.
That’s why the March of Dimes launched the Low Dose, Big Benefits™ campaign in May 2024. This initiative aims to increase awareness and appropriate use of low-dose aspirin to reduce the risks of preeclampsia and preterm birth.
Here’s how the campaign is making a difference:
educational Outreach: Providing updated information and training for healthcare professionals.
Patient Resources: Empowering you with the knowledge to advocate for your health.
National & Local Partnerships: Expanding the reach of this vital message.
Resources Available to You:
Healthcare Provider Toolkit: https://www.marchofdimes.org/itstartswithmom/low-dose-big-benefits-partner-toolkit – A comprehensive resource for your doctor. While low-dose aspirin can be incredibly beneficial,it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s absolutely essential to have a conversation with your healthcare provider before starting any new medication, including aspirin, during pregnancy. Your doctor will consider your complete medical history,current health status,and individual risk factors to determine if low-dose aspirin is right for you. If prescribed, follow these guidelines: Take the aspirin exactly as directed. Your health and the health of your baby
Patient Risk Factors Worksheet: critically important: Talk to Your Doctor Before Starting Aspirin
Do not exceed the recommended dosage.
* Don’t change the frequency or timing without your doctor’s approval.
