How to Reduce the Risk of Developing Preeclampsia?

How to Reduce the Risk of Developing Preeclampsia?

Are you experiencing severe headaches, vision changes, shortness of breath, upper belly pain, or sudden nausea? These are not common during pregnancy and could be signs of preeclampsia. 

This serious condition usually appears after 20 weeks of pregnancy and can cause high blood pressure. It can also pose severe complications for both mother and baby if not treated. However, you can reduce risk by taking preventive steps and monitoring symptoms closely. 

In this blog, Dr Pankhuri Gautam, a leading gynaecologist in Jaipur, will guide you through the tried-and-tested measures to lower your chances of developing preeclampsia and ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy. Let's dive into the details to learn more.

10 Essential Tips to Reduce the Risk of Developing Preeclampsia

1. Regular Prenatal Care

           

Prenatal care consists of scheduled medical check-ups that monitor the health of both the mother and the developing baby throughout pregnancy. This regular monitoring is crucial for the early detection of any signs of preeclampsia, such as elevated blood pressure or protein in the urine. It enables timely interventions that can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications.

Tips for Regular Prenatal Care:

- Monitor Blood Pressure: Check blood pressure at every prenatal visit.

- Regular Urine Tests: Undergo urine tests during prenatal visits to check for protein levels.

- Prenatal Vitamins: Take prescribed prenatal vitamins daily.

- Report Symptoms: Report any unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider immediately.

Note - Discuss any concerns or questions with your healthcare provider to ensure no gaps. 

2. Healthy Diet and Nutrition

                          

A balanced diet is crucial during pregnancy as it provides the necessary nutrients to support maternal and fetal health. Eating various nutrient-dense foods helps reduce the risk of developing preeclampsia by promoting overall well-being and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels.

Tips for a Healthy Diet and Nutrition:

- Include Calcium-Rich Foods: Consume dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods with particular nutrients added to them that don’t naturally occur in significant amounts. These include breakfast cereals, fortified with iron. vitamin B and D; milk, fortified with vitamin D; orange juice, fortified with calcium and Vitamin D; and bread and flour, fortified with acid and iron. 

- Include Magnesium-Rich Foods: Add nuts, seeds, whole grains, and legumes to your diet.

- Avoid High-Sodium Foods: Limit processed, fast, and salty snack intake.

- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Note - It is always advised to consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating any significant changes in your diet during pregnancy. 

3. Exercise and Physical Activity

          

Engaging in regular exercise and maintaining physical activity during pregnancy can significantly reduce the risk of developing preeclampsia. It helps regulate blood pressure, improves circulation, and promotes cardiovascular health. 

Tips for Exercise and Physical Activity:

- Choose low-impact activities like walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga.

- Strive for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week.

- Begin with a warm-up and end with a cool-down to prevent injury.

- Choose breathable, supportive clothing and footwear.

- Discuss your exercise plans with your healthcare provider to ensure they are safe for your pregnancy.

Note: Always consult with your gynaecologist or healthcare provider before engaging in any form of physical activity during pregnancy to ensure it is safe and suitable for your specific condition.

4. Weight Management

               

Maintaining a healthy weight before and during pregnancy is vital for reducing the risk of preeclampsia. Excessive weight gain can elevate blood pressure and strain the cardiovascular system, increasing the likelihood of developing this condition.

Tips for Healthy Weight Management:

- Track your weight gain according to your healthcare provider's recommendations.

- Focus on nutrient-dense foods to nourish your body and support healthy weight gain.

- Limit intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods with little nutritional value.

- Engage in regular, moderate-intensity physical activity.

- Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating.

Note - Always consult with your healthcare providers regarding weight management during pregnancy. They help plan a diet that fulfils deficiencies and promotes a healthy weight. 

5. Stress Reduction Techniques

              

Effectively managing stress is essential for reducing the risk of preeclampsia. Chronic stress can elevate blood pressure and harm overall health, making it necessary to incorporate stress reduction techniques during pregnancy.

Tips for Stress Reduction:

- Engage in prenatal yoga to relax your body and mind.

- Incorporate meditation into your daily routine to reduce stress and improve mental clarity.

- Perform deep breathing exercises to calm your nervous system and lower stress levels.

- Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and take short naps if needed.

- Spend time on activities you enjoy to distract your mind from stressors.

Tip: Establish a regular relaxation routine, such as setting aside time each day for meditation or gentle stretching, to manage stress consistently throughout your pregnancy.

6. Managing Chronic Health Conditions

             

Properly managing chronic health conditions, such as hypertension, diabetes, and kidney disease, is crucial in reducing the risk of preeclampsia. Uncontrolled chronic conditions can exacerbate the risk factors associated with preeclampsia, leading to complications during pregnancy.

Tips for Managing Chronic Health Conditions:

- Schedule frequent visits with your healthcare provider to monitor and manage chronic conditions.

- Take prescribed medications as directed and discuss any changes with your healthcare provider.

- Follow a balanced diet tailored to your specific health needs.

- Regularly monitor your blood pressure at home and report any changes to your healthcare provider.

- Work with specialists to manage your conditions effectively.

Tip: Keep a detailed health journal to track your condition, medications, and any symptoms, and share this information with your healthcare provider during your appointments for better management.

7. Avoiding Harmful Substances

Substances like smoking, alcohol, and drugs can adversely affect both maternal and foetal health, increasing the likelihood of developing preeclampsia. Avoiding harmful substances is essential during pregnancy to reduce the risk of preeclampsia and other complications.

Tips for Avoiding Harmful Substances:

- Seek support and resources to stop smoking, as it significantly increases the risk of preeclampsia.

- Refrain from consuming alcohol during pregnancy to prevent complications.

- Avoid harmful chemicals and pollutants, such as pesticides and industrial fumes.

Note - If you struggle with substance use, seek help from healthcare providers, support groups, or counselling services. Be cautious with over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements, and consult your healthcare provider before using them.

8. Recognising Early Warning Signs

Early detection of preeclampsia symptoms allows for timely medical intervention, reducing the risk of severe complications and protecting both you and your baby's health.

Tips for Recognising Early Warning Signs:

- Keep track of your blood pressure regularly and report any significant changes to your healthcare provider.

- Look for sudden swelling in the hands, face, or feet that doesn't resolve with rest.

- Be aware of severe pain in the upper abdomen, especially under the ribs on the right side.

- Report any unusual nausea or vomiting that starts after mid-pregnancy.

- Seek medical attention if you experience sudden or severe shortness of breath.

Note - Notify your healthcare provider if you notice a significant decrease in urine output.

9. Supplements and Medications

            

Certain supplements and medications can play a crucial role in reducing the risk of developing preeclampsia. These include prenatal vitamins containing folic acid, iron, calcium, and vitamin D. These nutrients support maternal and fetal health, reducing the likelihood of nutritional deficiencies that can contribute to preeclampsia. 

Tips for Supplements and Medications:

- Take prescribed prenatal vitamins daily to ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients.

- Include calcium and magnesium supplements if recommended by your healthcare provider to help reduce the risk of preeclampsia.

- Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements or medications.

- Adhere strictly to the prescribed doses and schedules for any medications.

- Have regular check-ups to monitor the effects of any supplements or medications on your pregnancy.

Note - It’s essential to take these under the guidance of a healthcare provider to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your pregnancy.

10. Education and Awareness

Being well-informed about preeclampsia and its risks can empower you to take proactive steps to prevent it. Education and awareness help you recognise symptoms early, understand preventive measures, and seek timely medical advice.

Tips for Education and Awareness:

- Join prenatal classes and workshops to learn about pregnancy health, including how to prevent preeclampsia.

- Educate yourself about the early warning signs of preeclampsia and when to seek medical help.

- Do not hesitate to ask your healthcare provider questions about preeclampsia and how to reduce your risk.

Note - Keep yourself updated with the latest research and guidelines on preeclampsia prevention and management.

Conclusion

It is crucial to be proactive about health management during pregnancy. Reducing the risk of developing preeclampsia involves a comprehensive approach that includes regular prenatal care, a healthy diet, exercise, weight management, stress reduction, and avoiding harmful substances. By following these guidelines, expectant mothers can significantly lower their chances of developing this serious condition.

Dr Pankhuri Gautam, one of the best gynaecologists in Jaipur, emphasises the importance of taking these preventive measures to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby. By adopting these practices, you can work towards a healthier and safer pregnancy.

If you encounter any problems or have questions, please contact us today. We are here to support you.