Pre-eclampsia statistics

Find more information and support about pre-eclampsia.

• Pre-eclampsia affects up to 6% of pregnancies in the UK. 

• Severe pre-eclampsia develops in around 1-2% of UK pregnancies.

• 8-10% of all preterm births result from hypertensive disorders, including pre-eclampsia. 

• 1 in 6 women who have had pre-eclampsia will have it again in a future pregnancy.

What are the symptoms?

Early signs of pre-eclampsia include high blood pressure and having protein in the urine. Further symptoms may include swelling of the feet, ankles, face and hands, severe headache, vision problems and pain just below the ribs.

What causes pre-eclampsia?

The exact cause of pre-eclampsia is not known and more research needs to be done into the condition. However, it’s thought that there is a link between pre-eclampsia and problems with the placenta.

What is the cure for pre-eclampsia?

There is currently no cure for pre-eclampsia. Delivering the baby is the only ‘cure,’ which is why it is a major cause of preterm birth.

Media requests about pre-eclampsia

Our clinicians, scientists and researchers are available to speak about pre-eclampsia for press and media. If you are interested in speaking to a clinician, contact Tommy's press office on 0207 398 3436 or email [email protected]