Preeclampsia history and postpartum risk of cerebrovascular disease and cognitive impairment: Potential mechanisms.

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy such as preeclampsia, eclampsia, superimposed preeclampsia, and gestational hypertension are major causes of fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality. Women with a history of hypertensive pregnancy disorders have increased risk of stroke and cognitive impairments later in life. Moreover, women with a history of preeclampsia have increased risk of mortality from diseases including stroke, Alzheimer's disease, and cardiovascular disease.