Pre-eclampsia at 14 weeks: what to know

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy-related condition involving raised blood pressure and possible effects on organs such as the kidneys or liver. At 14 weeks, clinicians will check the reading carefully and consider other causes of high blood pressure or protein in urine. They may repeat blood pressure, test urine and blood, and use ultrasound to assess growth and the placenta.

A headache, visual change, swelling, upper abdominal pain or feeling unusually unwell can occur with pre-eclampsia, but some people have no noticeable symptoms. A symptom is not a diagnosis; the pattern of blood pressure, urine, blood tests and pregnancy findings guides care.

Contact your maternity team promptly if a clinician has mentioned high blood pressure or protein in your urine. Take prescribed medicine exactly as directed and keep any monitoring appointments. Do not start aspirin, supplements or another medicine without checking that it is suitable in pregnancy.

Bring a list of medicines and recent readings to the appointment. Your team may arrange closer antenatal monitoring and explain how to check for warning symptoms at home.

Seek urgent maternity assessment for a severe or persistent headache, blurred vision or flashing lights, severe pain beneath the ribs, sudden marked swelling, shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, fainting, vaginal bleeding or severe abdominal pain. Call emergency services if you feel seriously unwell or cannot travel safely.

Ask which results led to the concern, whether repeat blood pressure and urine tests are needed, how often you should be monitored, and which local maternity service to contact outside appointments.