How to say it: “pree-ih-KLAMP-see-uh”
What is preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a dangerous condition that can happen during pregnancy. It can put baby and you at risk. Here's what you need to know:
- It causes high blood pressure (when the force of blood in your body is too strong)
- It usually develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy (about 5 months)
- It happens in about 4 out of every 100 pregnancies in the U.S.
- It causes 6 out of every 100 babies to be born too early
Black women have a higher chance of getting preeclampsia. This happens because of racism and unfair treatment in health care, which makes pregnancy less safe for Black mothers. Research shows that racism and inequities in health care, as well as other social and structural factors, contribute to these differences and can make pregnancy less safe for Black mothers. (1, 2, 3, 4)
CMQCC is working with March of Dimes, hospitals, clinics, and community groups across California to help health professionals educate women and birthing people about a simple way to prevent preeclampsia. Low-dose aspirin (LDA) is the only medication currently recommended to help reduce the risk of preeclampsia for people who are at increased risk. If your doctor, nurse, or health care provider recommends it, taking a small amount of aspirin every day during pregnancy may help lower your risk.
How can I prevent preeclampsia?
Low-dose aspirin, as recommended by your healthcare provider, is the only known effective solution to prevent preeclampsia.
How can low-dose aspirin keep you safe?
Studies have shown that taking low-dose aspirin during pregnancy may help reduce your risk for serious problems, like preeclampsia and premature birth.
Ask your healthcare provider, "Am I at risk for preeclampsia?"
