Possible Effects of Preeclampsia

This condition can complicate pregnancy, birth and even linger after giving birth. It can prove uncomfortable at best and fatal at the very worst (Mayo, 2022). Preeclampsia is yet another adverse condition that American Black pregnant people have a much higher risk of contracting than any other race or nationality in the US (Hatch, 2021).

Carrying parent:

  • Long term the carrying parent can develop hemolysis elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count or (HELLP) postpartum which can further complicate this individual’s life with possible seizures and chronic hypertension (Adorno et al, 2022).
  • Seizures and/or coma due to eclampsia (Mayo, 2022)(WHO, 2025).
  • Organ damage to the lungs, eyes, heart, brain and more that can result in a stroke and/or permanent brain damage (Mayo, 2022).
  • With every instance of preeclampsia expands the chances for the carrying parent to develop heart disease (Mayo, 2022).  

Baby:

  • Stunted growth due to decrease blood flow from parent to baby’s placenta also known as fetal growth restriction (Mayo, 2022).

Baby & carrying parent:

  • Premature or early delivery (Mayo, 2022).
  • Life-threatening amount of bleeding from an injured placenta (Mayo, 2022).
  • Hemolysis elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count or (HELLP) syndrome which can further complicate this individual’s life with possible seizures and chronic hypertension (Adorno et al, 2022).