It occurs in about 2-7% of healthy women having their first baby. If preeclampsia occurs close to the end of pregnancy (75% of cases), there is only a slight increase of risk to the pregnancy. If preeclampsia occurs earlier in pregnancy or in pregnancies with additional risk factors (gestational diabetes, multiples, etc.) there is greater risk for complications including low birth weight (LBW), preterm delivery and the risk of eclampsia. Preeclampsia is more common towards the end of pregnancy but it can also be diagnosed in the late second trimester, when it is typically more severe.
If symptoms reach a certain point, the decision to induce labor may be made. A cesarean section may be recommended in some cases, particularly if there is fetal distress during the induction.
Related terms: eclampsia, toxemia
Source
Obstetrics: Normal and Problem Pregnancies. Gabbe, S, Niebyl, J, Simpson, JL. Fifth Edition.
Preeclampsia. A.D.A.M. Accessed 2/10/10.
