Does induction of labour treat pre-eclampsia?

Pre-eclampsia involves high blood pressure and signs that pregnancy is affecting organs such as the kidneys or liver. Medicines can control blood pressure and reduce certain risks, while monitoring checks you and your baby. The condition usually settles after birth, although symptoms and blood pressure can continue or appear after delivery. Induction is one possible route to birth when labour is considered suitable; a caesarean birth may be advised if that is safer.

Attend every blood-pressure, urine, blood-test and fetal-monitoring appointment. Take prescribed medicines as directed and report any new symptom rather than waiting for the next visit. Your team will consider the severity of pre-eclampsia, pregnancy stage, cervical findings and the baby’s condition when discussing timing and method. You can read about [Pre-eclampsia](/conditions/pre-eclampsia/) and [Induction of Labour](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/induction-of-labour/).

Seek urgent maternity assessment for a severe or persistent headache, blurred vision or flashing lights, severe pain below the ribs, sudden breathlessness, chest pain, heavy bleeding, a seizure, or feeling markedly unwell. Contact the maternity unit immediately if your baby’s movements are reduced or changed. These symptoms need assessment regardless of whether induction has been scheduled.

Ask how your blood pressure and test results affect the timing of birth, whether induction is appropriate, and what monitoring will continue during labour. Discuss medicines, pain relief, the possibility of assisted or caesarean birth, and how blood pressure will be checked after delivery.