Postpartum preeclampsia: What causes it?

What is postpartum preeclampsia? I thought preeclampsia only occurred during pregnancy.

- Jennifer / Kansas

Mayo Clinic obstetrician and gynecologist Roger Harms, M.D., and colleagues answer select questions from readers.

Answer

Preeclampsia — a condition characterized by high blood pressure and excess protein in the urine — typically occurs during pregnancy. However, it may also develop up to four to six weeks postpartum. Signs and symptoms of postpartum preeclampsia include severe, persistent headaches and blurry vision. The cause isn't well understood. Although postpartum preeclampsia is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention, it is usually short-lived. With proper treatment, blood pressure usually returns to normal within a few days or weeks with no long-term adverse effects.