Women's experiences of preeclampsia: Australian action on preeclampsia survey of women and their confidants.

INTRODUCTION

The experience of normal pregnancy is often disrupted for women with preeclampsia (PE).

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Postal survey of the 112 members of the consumer group, Australian Action on Pre-Eclampsia (AAPEC).

RESULTS

Surveys were returned by 68 women (61% response rate) and from 64 (57%) partners, close relatives or friends. Respondents reported experiencing pre-eclampsia (n = 53), eclampsia (n = 5), and/or Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, and Low Platelets (HELLP syndrome) (n = 26). Many women had no knowledge of PE prior to diagnosis (77%) and, once diagnosed, did not appreciate how serious or life threatening it was (50%). Women wanted access to information about PE. Their experience contributed substantial anxiety towards future pregnancies. Partners/friends/relatives expressed fear for the woman and/or her baby and had no prior understanding of PE.

CONCLUSIONS

The PE experience had a substantial effect on women, their confidants, and their babies and affected their approach to future pregnancies. Access to information about PE was viewed as very important.