Question 1

What is Preeclampsia?

Accepted Answer

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and organ damage, most commonly affecting the liver and kidneys. It is caused by abnormal placental development and blood clotting disorders that restrict blood flow to the placenta. The Factor V Leiden Mutation Analysis is the most important test for identifying genetic risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing preeclampsia.

Question 2

What causes preeclampsia?

Accepted Answer

Preeclampsia is caused by abnormal development of the placenta and blood vessels during pregnancy, combined with genetic clotting disorders like Factor V Leiden mutation. When the placenta does not develop properly, it restricts blood flow and triggers an inflammatory response that leads to high blood pressure and protein leaking into the urine. Women with blood clotting mutations face higher risk because these conditions further compromise placental function and blood circulation to the developing baby.

Question 3

What is the best test for preeclampsia?

Accepted Answer

The Factor V Leiden Mutation Analysis is the most important test for preeclampsia risk assessment because it detects a genetic mutation that significantly increases your likelihood of developing this dangerous pregnancy complication. This test identifies whether you carry the Factor V Leiden gene, which causes abnormal blood clotting that can restrict placental blood flow. The Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) test is also essential as research shows that low riboflavin levels are associated with increased preeclampsia risk. Together, these blood tests help identify women who need closer monitoring during pregnancy to prevent life-threatening complications.

Question 4

When should I get tested for preeclampsia?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you are planning pregnancy and have a personal or family history of preeclampsia, blood clots, or miscarriages. Testing is especially important if you have risk factors like obesity, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or are over 35 years old. Women who experienced preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy should absolutely get tested before conceiving again. Ideally, genetic and nutritional testing should be completed before pregnancy or during early pregnancy to allow time for preventive measures and enhanced monitoring.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of preeclampsia?

Accepted Answer

Preeclampsia symptoms include persistent headaches that do not respond to pain relievers, vision changes like blurred vision or seeing spots, sudden weight gain and severe swelling in your face and hands, and upper abdominal pain especially under your ribs on the right side. You might also notice decreased urination, nausea or vomiting in the second half of pregnancy, and shortness of breath. Some women develop preeclampsia without obvious symptoms, which is why regular blood pressure monitoring during prenatal visits is critical for early detection.

Question 6

Who is at risk for preeclampsia?

Accepted Answer

Women at higher risk for preeclampsia include first-time mothers, those over 35 or under 20 years old, and women carrying multiples like twins or triplets. Your risk increases if you have chronic high blood pressure, kidney disease, diabetes, autoimmune disorders like lupus, or obesity. Genetic factors play a significant role, especially if you carry the Factor V Leiden mutation or have a family history of preeclampsia. Women who had preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy face a 15-20% chance of recurrence, and those with new partners between pregnancies also have elevated risk.

Question 7

What happens if preeclampsia is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated preeclampsia can progress to eclampsia, a life-threatening condition causing seizures that can result in coma or death for both mother and baby. The condition can trigger HELLP syndrome, a severe complication involving breakdown of red blood cells, elevated liver enzymes, and dangerously low platelet counts. Other serious complications include stroke, organ failure affecting the kidneys and liver, placental abruption where the placenta separates from the uterus, and premature birth. For the baby, untreated preeclampsia restricts oxygen and nutrient supply, leading to poor growth, low birth weight, and potentially stillbirth.

Question 8

Can preeclampsia be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Preeclampsia is diagnosed clinically through blood pressure measurements and urine protein tests, not through a single blood test. However, blood tests are essential for assessing risk factors before symptoms develop and monitoring complications once preeclampsia is diagnosed. The Factor V Leiden Mutation Analysis identifies genetic predisposition to blood clotting disorders that increase preeclampsia risk, while the Vitamin B2 test reveals nutritional deficiencies associated with higher risk. During pregnancy, doctors may order liver function tests, kidney function tests, and platelet counts to monitor organ function and detect HELLP syndrome.

Question 9

How is preeclampsia treated?

Accepted Answer

Preeclampsia treatment depends on the severity and how far along you are in pregnancy, with delivery being the only definitive cure. Before delivery is safe, doctors manage the condition with blood pressure medications like labetalol or nifedipine, magnesium sulfate to prevent seizures, and corticosteroids to speed up the baby's lung development if early delivery is necessary. You will need frequent monitoring with blood pressure checks, blood tests, and ultrasounds to assess baby's growth. Bed rest at home or hospitalization may be required for close observation. Women diagnosed after 37 weeks typically deliver immediately, while earlier cases are managed carefully with the goal of safely extending pregnancy.

Question 10

How can I prevent preeclampsia?

Accepted Answer

Preeclampsia prevention starts with identifying risk factors through genetic testing like Factor V Leiden Mutation Analysis before pregnancy. Low-dose aspirin taken daily starting in the first trimester significantly reduces risk for high-risk women and should be discussed with your doctor. Maintaining adequate vitamin B2 levels through diet or supplementation may help, as deficiency is linked to increased risk. Regular prenatal care with blood pressure monitoring is essential for early detection. Managing pre-existing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure before pregnancy, maintaining a healthy weight, and taking calcium supplements if your diet is low in calcium can all reduce your risk.

Question 11

What can I do at home for preeclampsia?

Accepted Answer

If diagnosed with preeclampsia, you can support medical treatment at home by monitoring your blood pressure daily with a home device and reporting readings above 140/90 to your doctor immediately. Rest frequently on your left side to improve blood flow to the placenta, stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and follow a balanced diet rich in protein, fruits, and vegetables. Track your baby's movements and report decreased activity right away. Avoid salty foods that increase swelling, limit stressful activities, and attend all scheduled prenatal appointments. However, home care supplements but never replaces medical treatment, as preeclampsia is a serious condition requiring professional monitoring and intervention.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Preeclampsia Blood Test

What is Preeclampsia?

What causes preeclampsia?

What is the best test for preeclampsia?

When should I get tested for preeclampsia?

References

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