-occurs in third trimester (after 28 weeks)
-affects 5-8% of pregnancies
-may progress to eclampia (characterized by seizures)
-cause is unknown, likely related to abnormal placentation
-risk factors include advanced maternal age (>40), first pregnancy, obesity, multiple pregnancy, or history (personal or family) of preeclampsia
-only cure for preeclampsia is delivery; bedrest has been shown to be ineffective
