PRE-ECLAMPSIA occurs in pregnancy or immediately after the delivery of a baby and is a rapidly progressive condition characterised by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Other symptoms include vision problems and sudden swelling of the feet, ankles, face and hands. They typically occur after more than 20 weeks into a pregnancy and can lead to premature birth and stillbirth.

Symptoms can be treated but the only cure is to deliver the baby and placenta as soon as possible.

One in 30 women develop the condition in their first pregnancy and about one in five pregnant women with high blood pressure go on to develop pre-eclampsia. Around one woman in 100 can develop eclampsia, a type of seizure which can be life-threatening.