If you’re pregnant, you’ve likely heard about preeclampsia and the warning signs to watch for. But have you ever heard of HELLP syndrome? This rare pregnancy complication is serious, and if you experience the symptoms it’s important to get medical attention right away. Here’s what you should know.
What Is HELLP Syndrome?
HELLP syndrome is a severe type of preeclampsia that can develop in the third trimester, and into the week following childbirth. The acronym HELLP stands for:
- H - Hemolysis (the destruction of the red blood cells that carry oxygen to your body)
- EL - Elevated liver enzymes (which indicate liver damage)
- LP - Low platelet count (platelets help with clotting)
If left untreated, HELLP syndrome can lead to serious health issues such as:
- Blood clots
- Heavy bleeding or hemorrhage
- Kidney failure
- Placental abruption, where the placenta separates from the uterus before birth
- Fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema)
What Are the Symptoms of HELLP Syndrome?
The symptom most commonly experienced by those diagnosed with HELLP syndrome is pain in the upper right or upper middle portion of the abdomen, where the liver is located. Other signs of potential HELLP syndrome include:
- Headache
- Vision problems
- Shoulder, neck, and other upper body pain
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Swelling (also known as edema) or quick weight gain
- Seizure
What Causes HELLP Syndrome?
HELLP syndrome is very rare, and only occurs in 0.1% to 1% of all pregnancies. While there’s no known cause, up to 1 in 5 pregnant people who have preeclampsia or eclampsia develop HELLP syndrome.
Risk factors for HELLP syndrome include those who:
- Are over the age of 25
- Have been diagnosed with HELLP syndrome in previous pregnancies
- Have given birth before
- Are of the Caucasian race
How Is HELLP Syndrome Treated?
If your provider suspects you have HELLP syndrome, they will order blood tests to assess your liver and kidney function, as well as to get a blood count. If needed, your provider may also order a scan to observe your liver.
Just as with preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome usually goes away within two days of delivering your baby. Because of this, you will likely be induced or need to deliver your baby via C-section right away. HELLP syndrome can also be managed in some cases by taking blood pressure medication or medicine to prevent seizures.
Is HELLP Syndrome Dangerous for My Baby?
The great news is that HELLP syndrome itself won’t affect your little one. However, since the ultimate treatment for HELLP syndrome in pregnant women is delivering your little one, an early delivery can have an affect on your baby.
Depending on how premature your baby is at the time of delivery, your newborn might need to spend some time in the NICU as they continue to develop (this is part of the reason it’s so important to deliver at a hospital with an on-site NICU!). During this time any other health complications due to a premature birth will be addressed and treated by your baby’s NICU team.
We know that it can be a little scary to think about having an early delivery due to conditions like HELLP syndrome—but knowing what to expect from any curveballs your pregnancy throws at you can help you feel prepared if something doesn’t quite go to plan. If you have any concerns or questions about your health during your pregnancy, it’s important to contact your provider right away for guidance.