What should you know about preeclampsia blood pressure range?

The first number is systolic pressure, measured as the heart pumps; the second is diastolic pressure, measured between beats. A reading at or above 140/90 during pregnancy or after birth can lead to repeat checks and tests for pre-eclampsia. A reading at or above 160/110 is a severe range and needs urgent assessment, especially if symptoms are present. One reading does not describe every part of your health: clinicians also consider symptoms, urine, blood tests, and fetal or postnatal findings.

Sit quietly with your back supported, feet on the floor, and the cuff on your bare upper arm; repeat the measurement as your clinician has shown you. Write down the time and both numbers, then contact your maternity team about a raised result. Do not stop or start blood-pressure medicine without advice. Antenatal Care Package appointments can include routine checks, while the Pre-eclampsia page explains the broader condition. A single home result should not replace clinical assessment.

Seek urgent medical help for a reading at or above 160/110, or for severe headache, visual changes, chest pain, difficulty breathing, fainting, confusion, seizure, or severe pain under the ribs. If a lower reading is accompanied by concerning symptoms, contact your maternity unit urgently as well. After delivery, these warnings remain relevant because pre-eclampsia can appear during postnatal recovery.

Ask which readings should prompt a call, how often to measure at home, whether your cuff is suitable, and how symptoms change the plan. Ask when urine or blood testing is needed and who covers urgent advice overnight.