What condition presents with excessive protein in urine during pregnancy?

Preeclampsia is a condition characterized by high blood pressure and excessive protein in the urine, usually occurring after the 20th week of pregnancy. The presence of protein in the urine, known as proteinuria, is a key diagnostic criterion for preeclampsia. This condition can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the baby if not managed properly. Elevated protein levels indicate that the kidneys are being affected, which can result from the increased blood pressure and the resultant strain on the kidneys.

In contrast, gestational diabetes primarily involves issues related to blood glucose levels rather than protein in urine. Placenta previa involves the placenta covering the cervix and does not typically cause proteinuria. Hyperemesis gravidarum is characterized by severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy, which also does not correlate with protein levels in urine. Thus, the hallmark sign of proteinuria in the context of hypertension distinctly identifies preeclampsia as the correct condition.