Maternal and Fetal Outcomes of Preeclampsia and Eclampsia: A Hospital-Based Observational Study

Open Access

Abstract

Background: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, including preeclampsia and eclampsia, are major causes of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. These conditions are characterized by hypertension and multi-organ involvement, often leading to severe complications if not managed promptly. The burden is particularly high in low- and middle-income countries due to limited access to quality antenatal care and delayed clinical intervention. Objective: To assess maternal and fetal outcomes associated with preeclampsia and eclampsia in a tertiary care hospital in Bangladesh. Methods & Materials: This prospective observational study was conducted among 120 pregnant women diagnosed with preeclampsia or eclampsia at Rangpur Medical College Hospital between January and December 2025. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and clinical records. Maternal complications and fetal outcomes were recorded and analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Statistical significance was determined at p<0.05. Results: Among the participants, 51.7% were aged 20–29 years and 61.7% were from rural areas. Preeclampsia accounted for 70.0% of cases, while eclampsia accounted for 30.0%. Severe hypertension, HELLP syndrome, acute kidney injury, ICU admission and maternal mortality were significantly higher in the eclampsia group (p<0.05). Preterm birth occurred in 56.7% of cases and 66.7% of neonates had low birth weight. Adverse fetal outcomes were significantly more common in eclampsia (83.3%) compared to preeclampsia (50.0%) (p=0.001). Conclusion: Eclampsia is associated with significantly higher maternal and fetal complications compared to preeclampsia. Early diagnosis, improved antenatal care and timely management are essential to reduce adverse outcomes.