Preeclampsia: what to know now

High blood pressure may occur with protein in the urine or signs that organs such as the liver, kidneys or brain are under strain. A severe headache, visual changes, pain beneath the ribs, sudden swelling of the face or hands, nausea, vomiting or reduced baby movements deserve medical attention. Symptoms can overlap with ordinary pregnancy discomfort, so testing is needed rather than relying on how you feel.

Attend scheduled antenatal appointments and take prescribed medicines exactly as directed. Your maternity team may repeat blood pressure, urine and blood tests, monitor growth and movements, and discuss whether observation, hospital care or birth is safest. Depending on the situation, induction of labour or a caesarean section may be considered. Do not start, stop or share medicines without advice.

Contact your maternity unit urgently for a severe or persistent headache, blurred vision or flashing lights, severe upper-abdominal pain, breathing difficulty, chest pain, confusion, a seizure, heavy bleeding, or noticeably reduced baby movements. Seek emergency help for a seizure, collapse or severe breathing trouble. These signs need immediate assessment, regardless of a previous normal check.

Ask: What do my blood-pressure, urine and blood results show? How often should I be monitored? Which symptoms mean I should call immediately? How are the baby’s growth and wellbeing being checked? If birth becomes advisable, what would induction or caesarean care involve?