What are pre-eclampsia and eclampsia?

Pre-eclampsia is a complication of pregnancy. Women with pre-eclampsia have high blood pressure, protein in their urine, and may develop other symptoms and problems. The more severe the pre-eclampsia, the greater the risk of serious complications to both mother and baby. Pre-eclampsia is thought to be due to a problem with the afterbirth (placenta), and so delivering the baby early is the usual treatment. Medication may be advised to help prevent complications.