Preeclampsia is a complication that can appear after the 20th week of pregnancy. It shows up as high blood pressure and signs that vital organs—especially the kidneys and liver—are under stress. If preeclampsia is not found early and treated, it can harm both mother and baby and may even be fatal.
Dr Eziamaka Ezenkwele, who leads the Enugu Chapter of the Society of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians of Nigeria (SGON), says preeclampsia remains one of the top causes of maternal death in Nigeria. Her message is clear: “Early attention saves lives.”
Why Early Detection Matters
High blood pressure alone can be dangerous, but with preeclampsia, the risks multiply. Uncontrolled preeclampsia can lead to seizures, stroke, or organ failure in the mother. For the baby, there is a danger of poor growth, preterm birth, or even stillbirth. Regular antenatal visits let health workers:
- Check blood pressure.
- Test urine for protein (an early warning sign).
Doing these simple checks at every clinic visit can spot trouble long before it turns into an emergency.
Who Faces Greater Risk? 
Certain women need to be especially alert for preeclampsia. According to Dr Ezenkwele, those at higher risk include:
- First‑time mothers (their bodies are adapting to pregnancy for the first time).
- Women with a history of preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy.
- Women with chronic conditions such as hypertension, kidney disease, or diabetes.
- Mothers carrying twins or triplets (multiple babies put extra stress on the body).
Warning Signs and What To Do
If you are pregnant, take note of these symptoms and seek medical help right away if they appear:
- Persistent high blood pressure (clinic reading ≥140/90 mmHg).
- Protein in urine (your nurse or doctor will test this).
- Severe headaches that do not improve with rest.
- Changes in eyesight—blurred vision, flashing lights, or blind spots.
- Upper belly pain, usually under the ribs on the right side.
Action steps
- Register for antenatal care early—ideally by your second missed period.
- Attend every scheduled clinic visit; do not skip because you feel “fine.”
- Report any strange symptoms immediately to your health worker.
- If doctors suggest moving to a higher‑level hospital, accept the referral. It can save your life and your baby’s life.
Strengthening Antenatal Care in Katsina, Enugu, and Beyond
Across Nigeria—whether in Katsina, Enugu, or Lagos—health professionals stress that quality antenatal care remains the first line of defense against preeclampsia. Community education campaigns, radio programs, and local women’s groups can help spread the word.
Role of Families and Communities
Pregnant women often rely on partners and relatives for transportation money, decision‑making, and emotional support. Families should learn the signs of preeclampsia and encourage clinic visits rather than self‑medication or “waiting it out.”
Policy Call from SGON
The SGON urges:
- More public education so every expectant mother knows the risks of preeclampsia.
- Training for frontline health workers to recognize early signs.
- Equipping rural clinics with blood‑pressure machines and urine‑dipstick tests.
These low‑cost measures can sharply cut maternal deaths nationwide.
Conclusion
Preeclampsia does not have to be a death sentence. With early detection, regular antenatal care, and rapid response to warning signs, mothers can deliver safely and babies can be born healthy. Spread the word in your family and community: Preeclampsia awareness saves lives.
References
For practical guides, blood‑pressure monitors, and other maternal‑health tools, visit:
👉 genderpedia.ng/shop
