When Does Eclampsia Occur?

Most cases of eclampsia present in the third trimester of pregnancy, with about 80% of eclamptic seizures occurring intrapartum or within the first 48 hours following delivery. Rare cases have been reported before 20 weeks' gestation or as late as 23 days' postpartum.

At what point does preeclampsia become eclampsia?

Preeclampsia, formerly called "toxemia of pregnancy," may develop into the more severe condition called eclampsia. Eclampsia includes symptoms of preeclampsia, along with seizures. These conditions, when they develop, occur after 20 weeks of pregnancy. They also may develop shortly after delivery.

How does eclampsia happen?

What causes eclampsia? Eclampsia often follows preeclampsia, which is characterized by high blood pressure occurring in pregnancy and, rarely, postpartum. Other findings may also be present such as protein in the urine. If your preeclampsia worsens and affects your brain, causing seizures, you have developed eclampsia.