The Society of Gynaecologists and Obstetricians of Nigeria (SGON) has called for heightened awareness of preeclampsia to help prevent maternal deaths and pregnancy complications.
The Coordinator of SGON’s Enugu Chapter, Dr. Eziamaka Ezenkwele made the call during an interview in Enugu on Thursday.
She emphasized that awareness is critical to ensuring safe deliveries, healthy mothers, and healthy babies.
Preeclampsia, she explained, is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs such as the kidneys and liver, typically occurring after 20 weeks (five months) of pregnancy.
“Preeclampsia is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality in Nigeria. Early detection and treatment are vital to improving outcomes for both mother and child,” she said.
Dr. Ezenkwele warned that if not properly managed, preeclampsia could lead to stroke or death in the mother, and may also cause the loss of the baby.
She stressed the importance of regular antenatal care to monitor blood pressure and check for protein in urine—both key early indicators of the condition.
“Common symptoms include high blood pressure, protein in urine, severe headaches, vision changes such as blind spots or double vision, and abdominal pain,” she said.
According to her, women most at risk include first-time mothers, those with a history of preeclampsia, women with pre-existing conditions like hypertension and diabetes, and women carrying multiples.
She advised pregnant women to register for antenatal care by the time of their second missed period, attend regular clinics, report any worrying symptoms immediately, and adhere closely to medical advice.
“If referred to a higher-level facility, it is crucial that mothers and their families accept the referral as it could be life-saving,” she added.
