The placenta is the spongy material in the mother's uterus that nourishes the fetus. Some experts believe that a problem with the placenta causes pre eclampsia. The mother has spasms of the blood vessels, which increase her blood pressure. The blood flow to the placenta is impaired. If the blood pressure is not controlled, it can damage the placenta and cause death of the fetus.
Risk factors for developing pre eclampsia

If pregnant mother is younger than 18 or older than 40 years of age.

Low socioeconomic status.

Multiple gestation such as twins or triplets.

Molar pregnancy, an abnormal condition that mimics a normal pregnancy but is actually a tumor.

History of chronic high blood pressure, diabetes or kidney disorder.

Family history of the disorder (i.e., a mother, sister, grandmother or aunt who had the disorder).

Women with higher-than-average body fat.

Multiple gestation such as twins or triplets.
My name is David Papandreas and I conceived a Mom and Dad's Guide to Preeclampsia while my incredible wife and I found ourselves searching helplessly on the internet for what to expect. It was amazing that the websites only discussed the characteristics that define preeclampsia and offer no practical knowledge. Pregnant with our first child, we were scared not knowing what this meant and how we would react to the diagnosis.
Now, 9 months after our baby was born happy, healthy, and whole, we want to share our story and inspire the 400,000 pregnant ladies every year in the U.S. that develop preeclampsia. The book features useful tips, strategies and real stories to help others deal with the condition.