Difference between gestational hypertension and preeclampsia

Both conditions can be found during routine antenatal checks, even when you feel well. Assessment may include repeated blood-pressure readings, urine testing for protein, blood tests and review of symptoms. Preeclampsia may affect the kidneys, liver, blood cells, brain or placenta; protein in urine is one possible sign, but it is not the only way clinicians identify organ involvement. Gestational hypertension can change over time, so a diagnosis does not end monitoring. Antenatal care helps track your health and the baby's growth.

Attend every recommended appointment and take prescribed medicines exactly as directed. Ask how to check blood pressure if home readings are part of your plan, and keep a record of readings and symptoms. Resting may ease discomfort but does not replace assessment. Tell the maternity team about headaches, visual changes, upper abdominal pain, swelling that appears suddenly, shortness of breath or reduced fetal movement.

Seek urgent maternity advice for a severe or persistent headache, blurred vision or flashing lights, pain beneath the ribs, sudden swelling of the face or hands, difficulty breathing, confusion, seizure or reduced fetal movement. Do not wait for a routine visit if these symptoms appear. High blood pressure can be present without symptoms, which is why scheduled checks remain necessary.

Ask what your readings and test results show, how often you need review, which symptoms require immediate contact, and how monitoring may affect delivery planning. Request a clear out-of-hours contact route.