Diagnosis of preeclampsia begins with a medical history and physical exam. The woman's blood pressure will be measured. Preeclampsia is not contagious. Both mother and baby are at risk for complications of preeclampsia. Giving birth is the only cure for preeclampsia.
Preeclampsia limits blood flow to the placenta and the fetus.
The healthcare provider may decide to induce labor or to wait for labor to occur naturally. If the symptoms are mild, outpatient treatment is common. This includes bed rest at home and biweekly exams in the provider's office. If symptoms do not improve, hospitalization may be needed. Fetal testing will be done to decide if early delivery is possible.