What does the medical term preeclampsia mean?

It can develop after the middle of pregnancy or after birth. Some people feel well, so blood pressure checks and urine testing during antenatal visits matter. Clinicians may also check blood tests, symptoms, the baby’s growth, and blood flow through the placenta. Protein in urine can support the assessment, but preeclampsia can be considered even when urine protein is not present if there are other signs of organ involvement.

The condition can range from a mild finding needing close observation to a serious illness requiring hospital care. The name describes a clinical assessment; it does not by itself predict how labour or birth will happen.

Contact your maternity team promptly if you have been told your blood pressure is high or that preeclampsia is being assessed. Follow the plan for repeat measurements, urine checks, blood tests, and fetal monitoring. Treatment may include medicine to lower blood pressure, medicine to reduce seizure risk when clinically indicated, and planning birth when continuing the pregnancy becomes less safe. Your care may involve an [Antenatal Care Package](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/antenatal-care-package/).

Seek urgent maternity advice for a severe or persistent headache, changes in vision, pain beneath the ribs, sudden swelling of the face or hands, vomiting that feels unusual, shortness of breath, confusion, or reduced baby movements. These symptoms need assessment because preeclampsia can worsen without feeling dramatic. Call emergency services for collapse, a seizure, severe breathing difficulty, or heavy bleeding.

Ask which findings led to the diagnosis, how often your blood pressure and blood tests need checking, what symptoms should bring you back immediately, and how the team will decide between monitoring, induction, or a [Caesarean Section](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/caesarean-section/).