Effects of Pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy condition involving high blood pressure and signs that the body is under strain. It may affect the kidneys, liver, brain or blood clotting system, and changes can develop even when you do not feel unwell. The placenta may also function less effectively, which can affect fetal growth and wellbeing.

Your team may monitor blood pressure, urine, blood tests, symptoms and ultrasound findings. The timing of birth depends on how severe the condition is, how far pregnancy has progressed and how you and the baby are responding.

Attend every review and take prescribed blood-pressure medicine as directed. Record or report symptoms such as headache, visual changes, pain under the ribs, sudden swelling or reduced fetal movement. An [Antenatal Care Package](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/antenatal-care-package/) can include the monitoring needed during pregnancy.

If birth is recommended, your team may discuss induction or caesarean birth. These options are explained in [Induction of Labour](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/induction-of-labour/) and [Caesarean Section](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/caesarean-section/).

Seek urgent maternity assessment for a severe or persistent headache, flashing lights or blurred vision, severe upper-abdominal pain, sudden breathlessness, fainting, heavy bleeding or noticeably reduced fetal movement. Do not wait for a routine appointment if these symptoms appear, because pre-eclampsia can worsen quickly.

How severe is my pre-eclampsia? Which symptoms mean I should attend hospital? How often will my blood pressure and blood tests be checked? What findings would lead to induction or caesarean birth?