Pre-eclampsia: A Pregnancy-related Hypertensive Disorder
If hypertension during pregnancy is accompanied by swelling (edema) and proteinuria (protein loss in urine), the condition is called pre-eclampsia.
If pre-eclampsia worsens, it leads to severe pre-eclampsia, and if convulsive seizures develop, it progresses to eclampsia.
Pre-eclampsia, severe pre-eclampsia, and eclampsia are serious conditions that pose major risks to both mother and baby and can lead to fatal complications.
This disorder occurs in 3–7% of all pregnancies, while severe pre-eclampsia affects less than 1%, and eclampsia occurs in about 0.1% of pregnancies.
Risk Factors for Pre-eclampsia
The likelihood of pre-eclampsia increases in the following cases:
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History of pre-eclampsia in previous pregnancies,
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Family history of pre-eclampsia,
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First pregnancy,
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Black ethnicity,
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Multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.),
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Obesity,
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Polyhydramnios (excess amniotic fluid),
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Molar pregnancy,
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Young maternal age,
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Genetic predisposition.
Although many theories exist about the cause of pre-eclampsia, none have been fully confirmed.
Pre-eclampsia results from damage to the endothelial layer lining the blood vessels, causing vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) throughout the body. This leads to high blood pressure, edema, and proteinuria.
Prevention and Treatment of Pre-eclampsia
Due to the severe risks of pre-eclampsia for both mother and baby, many studies have been conducted on its prevention.
High-risk patients can be identified through various tests and examinations (although these are not definitive). Certain medications and supplements are used to prevent the development of pre-eclampsia, including:
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Aspirin,
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Calcium,
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Antioxidant vitamins,
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Salt restriction,
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Dietary modifications.
However, because the exact cause of pre-eclampsia remains unclear, a definitive preventive treatment has not been found.
Preventive Treatments for Pre-eclampsia
Low-dose Aspirin:
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Doses under 300 mg are recommended for pregnant women.
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Prevents platelet aggregation, thereby reducing clot formation.
Calcium Supplementation:
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Reduces vascular smooth muscle contraction, promoting blood vessel dilation.
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Some studies suggest calcium reduces pre-eclampsia risk, while others report no effect.
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Daily intake of 1 gram of calcium moderately decreases pre-eclampsia risk and severity.
Antioxidant Therapy:
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Vitamin C and E initially showed promise in preventing pre-eclampsia, but subsequent studies failed to confirm this effect.
Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5) and Its Role
Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5) may have protective effects against pre-eclampsia due to its:
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Antioxidant properties,
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Anti-inflammatory effects,
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Fibrinolytic (clot-dissolving) properties,
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Wound-healing and epithelial repair benefits.
Dexpanthenol, a derivative of Vitamin B5, is converted into pantothenic acid in the body and is found in foods like liver, fish, eggs, dairy, whole grains, potatoes, broccoli, mushrooms, and avocado.
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Daily intake of 5–6 mg prevents deficiency, while pregnant women can safely consume up to 10 mg per day.
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It is absorbed in the small intestine.
Potential Future Research on Pre-eclampsia and Vitamin B5
Studies are being planned to explore the benefits of higher doses of dexpanthenol (25–100 mg/day) in preventing pre-eclampsia.
If research approval is obtained, clinical studies may be conducted to investigate whether higher doses of dexpanthenol can be safely used in pregnant women to reduce endothelial damage and prevent pre-eclampsia complications.
