In pregnancy, PET stands for Pre-eclampsia. This is a serious condition that needs medical attention.
Understanding Pre-eclampsia (PET)
Pre-eclampsia (PET) is a complex, progressive disorder that develops due to problems with the placenta and maternal blood vessels. It typically appears after the 20th week of pregnancy. According to the provided reference, it is characterized by:
- New onset of hypertension (high blood pressure): This is a key symptom.
- Proteinuria: The presence of protein in the urine, indicating kidney issues.
- Significant end-organ dysfunction: This can include problems with the kidneys, liver, brain, or blood. Proteinuria may not always be present, especially with end-organ dysfunction.
Key Features of Pre-eclampsia (PET)
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Onset | Typically after 20 weeks of pregnancy. |
| Primary Cause | Issues with the placenta and maternal blood vessel function. |
| Main Characteristics | New hypertension combined with proteinuria or significant end-organ dysfunction, even without proteinuria in some cases. |
| Progressive Nature | The condition can worsen if left untreated, posing risks to both mother and baby. |
Why is Pre-eclampsia (PET) Important?
- Risks to the Mother: Pre-eclampsia can lead to serious complications like seizures (eclampsia), stroke, liver and kidney failure, and problems with blood clotting.
- Risks to the Baby: The condition can result in premature birth, low birth weight, and other complications for the baby.
Management and Treatment
Pre-eclampsia requires close monitoring and medical intervention. Treatment aims to:
- Manage blood pressure.
- Monitor the mother's and baby's health.
- Possibly deliver the baby if the risks of continuing the pregnancy outweigh the benefits.
Symptoms
It is vital to monitor for the below symptoms and report them to your doctor or midwife immediately. Common symptoms of Pre-eclampsia may include:
- Severe headache.
- Swelling in your hands, face and feet.
- Sudden weight gain.
- Changes to vision.
- Abdominal pain.
In summary, the medical term PET refers to Pre-eclampsia, a serious condition in pregnancy marked by hypertension and proteinuria or significant end-organ dysfunction stemming from placental and vascular issues.
