Risk assessment for pre-eclampsia – placental insufficiency.
Even a healthy pregnancy can develop complications later on. Pre-eclampsia (previously also known as toxaemia of pregnancy) is a serious complication that can occur in the second half of pregnancy. Symptoms include high blood pressure and a high level of protein in the urine. This results in reduced blood flow to the placenta, which supplies the unborn child with oxygen and nutrients.
In severe cases, the mother’s liver and kidney function may be impaired and her hematopoietic and nervous system may be affected. For the foetus this can result in a low birth weight and problems with the lungs. To protect the lives of both the mother and the unborn child, a premature delivery is often necessary.
Your gynecological practice for aarly screening for pre-eclampsia in Munich
The blood flow in the vessels is measured using a special ultrasound scan (uterine artery Doppler analysis). In addition, a blood sample is taken to measure the levels of two proteins in the blood (PAPP-A and PLGF). By combining both methods we are able to identify a high percentage of those women who are at risk of developing pre-eclampsia. In cases of increased risk, a timely and preventative administration of aspirin (100mg/day) can often prevent pre-eclampsia, particularly the severe forms of the disorder.
