One of the most common complications during pregnancy, beginning at 20 weeks, is preeclampsia. It is characterized by hypertension and kidney dysfunction and can affect women with normal pre-pregnancy blood pressure as well.

Symptoms include slowly developing hypertension, severe headaches, vision changes, vomiting, shortness of breath, and swelling of the hands and feet. Preeclampsia can also cause prematurity, hemolysis and placental abruption — which are all harmful and may even be fatal for the baby.

Managing preeclampsia can be challenging, but with regular medication, a controlled diet, adequate rest, and careful monitoring by your obstetrician, you can avoid further complications. Fortunately, symptoms usually subside upon delivery.