What should you know about preeclampsia before delivery?

Pre-eclampsia can affect blood pressure, the kidneys, liver, brain, placenta, and fetal growth. Before delivery, the obstetric team reviews symptoms, repeated blood-pressure readings, urine, blood tests, and the baby’s growth and wellbeing. Some people can be monitored closely while pregnancy continues; others need hospital care or delivery because their health or the baby’s condition is deteriorating. The plan can change after each assessment, so ask how results affect the next decision.

Attend every recommended review and take medicines exactly as prescribed. Keep a written list of symptoms and home readings, and report a new or worsening problem promptly. Ask whether you should limit activity, attend hospital for monitoring, or prepare for an earlier birth. If delivery is advised, your team may discuss Induction of Labour or Caesarean Section, depending on your condition, the baby’s position, previous birth history, and how quickly birth is needed. Routine antenatal follow-up remains useful for coordinating this plan.

Seek emergency assessment for severe headache, visual disturbance, severe upper-abdominal pain, chest pain, breathing difficulty, fainting, confusion, or seizure. Contact your maternity unit promptly for a persistent headache, sudden swelling, repeated vomiting with feeling unwell, or reduced fetal movement. Do not wait for a scheduled appointment when symptoms suggest your health or the baby’s wellbeing may be changing.

Ask what findings would lead to hospital admission or delivery, how the baby will be monitored, what medicines are planned, and how you will know when to call. Ask what type of birth is being considered and why.