UK Scientists have developed a new urine test which may help doctors predict pre-eclampsia, a serious and often life-threatening complication in pregnant women.

According to a study published in Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, the composition of five proteins in the urine at around 18 weeks' gestation can predict pre-eclampsia with high accuracy. 

University of Leicester researchers believe the new test can help physicians detect woman at-risk of developing the life-threatening high blood pressure condition in early stages and manage the disorder better and with less complications. 

Pre-eclampsia affects approximately 5% of pregnancies and is a condition which can pose serious health concerns, including kidney, liver and neurological problems, to both mother and fetus. 

The condition is characterized by a dramatic rise in the blood pressure and the presence of excessive protein in the urine usually after the 20th week of pregnancy. 

Warning symptoms for the condition includes headache, abdominal pain, visual problems such as blurred vision, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting, confusion and anxiety. 

Although there is no cure for pre-eclampsia, at risk mothers may be treated with preventive measures, including the use of medications to lower blood pressure, corticosteroids (for severe cases), anticonvulsives such as magnesium (severe cases), or bed rest. 

“Early identification will allow focused monitoring of those women and timely delivery of their babies, as well as reassurance for women at low risk,” said lead researcher Matt Hall.