Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that causes high blood pressure, generally beginning at the 20th week of pregnancy.
This condition can be dangerous for you and your baby. It can prevent your baby from receiving oxygen and nutrients. It can also harm your liver or kidneys. With expert care, however, this condition can be managed so that you and your baby will be as healthy as possible.
Learn more about preeclampsia and its symptoms.
We understand that discovering that you have a potentially serious pregnancy complication can be frightening. At Weill Cornell Medicine, we empower you with knowledge and compassionate support. Our team of compassionate obstetricians and maternal-fetal (high-risk pregnancy) specialists is here to help you and your baby experience a healthy pregnancy and birth.
Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine for Preeclampsia Care?
Compassionate and personalized care for all: At Weill Cornell Medicine, our obstetricians carefully monitor each and every patient for signs of preeclampsia.
Going to all your doctor’s appointments during your pregnancy is the best way for you to care for yourself and your baby. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure throughout your pregnancy and analyze your urine for any indications that you have preeclampsia. If you are diagnosed with this condition, our team of specialists are expertly trained to help you and your baby have the healthiest possible pregnancy, birth and fourth trimester.
Multidisciplinary care from leading experts: When you choose Weill Cornell Medicine, you have access to a network of doctors and specialists. Your obstetrician may consult with experts in maternal-fetal medicine, neonatology, advanced imaging and other medical professionals as needed.
Weill Cornell Medicine partners with NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S.
Preeclampsia Symptoms and Risks
If you have high blood pressure, call your obstetrician immediately if you have a headache or belly pain. These are signs of preeclampsia.
You can help protect yourself by learning the symptoms of preeclampsia and by seeing your doctor for regular prenatal care.
Diagnosing preeclampsia early may lower the chances of long-term problems for both you and your baby. If you are concerned that you may have preeclampsia, be sure to contact your obstetrician right away.
Diagnosis and Treatment of Preeclampsia by Leading Experts
If your doctor suspects preeclampsia, you may need certain tests, including:
● Blood tests: These may include liver and kidney function tests.
● Urine analysis: A test may be done to measure the amount of protein in your urine.
● Fetal ultrasound: Images of your baby allow your doctor to estimate fetal weight and the amount of fluid in the uterus (amniotic fluid).
● Nonstress test: This is a simple procedure that checks how your baby’s heart rate reacts when your baby moves.
Our team offers the most advanced and comprehensive treatments available, including:
● Medications: Medications can reduce your risk of worsening preeclampsia symptoms and preterm birth
● Hospitalization: Hospitalization may be necessary to better monitor your baby’s well-being and measure the volume of amniotic fluid
● Delivery: If you develop severe preeclampsia, you may need to give birth early to keep your baby as safe and healthy as possible
Make an Appointment
Whether you visit us virtually through a video visit or you see us in person, you can be assured that we will deliver the highest standards of care with compassion. Our team has taken every step to keep our facilities safe for you to continue your care. Learn more about our safety measures and the changes we’ve made to enhance your patient experience.
Meet Our Physicians
The physicians at the Weill Cornell Medicine Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology offer patients the highest level of safety and care. As a top-ranked academic medical center, you have access to our extensive network of specialists who provide seamless care throughout your treatment — to promote long-term physical and mental health.
