In the management of preeclampsia, what is the primary goal of therapy?

The primary goal of therapy in the management of preeclampsia is to stabilize the mother's condition and prepare for a safe delivery. Preeclampsia presents significant risks to both the mother and the fetus, including the potential for severe hypertension, organ dysfunction, and complications such as eclampsia. Therefore, the management primarily focuses on monitoring and controlling maternal blood pressure, assessing for signs of worsening disease, and preparing for delivery when necessary.

In preeclampsia, the safest course often involves delivering the baby, particularly if the condition progresses or if the gestational age is sufficient to allow for fetal development. By stabilizing the mother's condition and addressing the complications associated with preeclampsia, healthcare providers can significantly reduce risks for both the mother and the infant. This comprehensive approach ensures both the safety of the mother, who may require medical interventions, and the well-being of the fetus, as delivery can often resolve the hypertensive disorder.

Other potential goals, such as preventing all forms of hypertension, ensuring fetal well-being only, or managing parental anxiety, are secondary to the immediate need to safely manage the health of the mother and prepare for effective delivery, which addresses all aspects of maternal-fetal well-being in a critical situation.