What maternal condition is indicated by elevated blood pressure and edema after 20 weeks of gestation?

Elevated blood pressure and edema occurring after 20 weeks of gestation are indicative of preeclampsia, a serious condition that can affect both the mother and the fetus. Preeclampsia is characterized not only by hypertension but also swelling due to increased fluid retention, which often leads to proteinuria (the presence of excess protein in the urine).

The onset of this condition aligns with the second half of pregnancy, particularly beyond 20 weeks, making it a critical point for monitoring expectant mothers. If left untreated, preeclampsia can progress to more severe complications such as eclampsia, which involves seizures, and can jeopardize the health of both the mother and the baby.

Other conditions listed present different clinical features or timelines. For instance, gestational hypertension specifically refers to high blood pressure without the additional symptoms associated with preeclampsia, such as proteinuria. Placental abruption involves the premature separation of the placenta from the uterus, usually accompanied by abdominal pain and bleeding, rather than isolated changes in blood pressure and edema. Hyperemesis gravidarum is characterized by severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, which does not correlate with elevated blood pressure and edema. Thus, the specific combination of elevated