Pregnancy pre-eclampsia causes: what to know

The exact cause is not fully understood. Changes in the placenta can affect the lining of blood vessels and how blood reaches the placenta. This may lead to high blood pressure and signs of strain involving organs such as the kidneys or liver. Pre-eclampsia can develop without obvious symptoms, which is why routine blood-pressure checks and urine testing during [Antenatal Care Package](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/antenatal-care-package/) visits matter.

Care is tailored to how far the pregnancy has progressed and how you and the baby are responding. Monitoring may include blood pressure, urine, blood tests, ultrasound and checks of growth or wellbeing. Medicines can lower blood pressure, and clinicians may recommend treatment to reduce seizure risk. If continuing the pregnancy becomes unsafe, birth may be recommended through [Induction of Labour](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/induction-of-labour/) or [Caesarean Section](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/caesarean-section/).

Get urgent maternity advice for a severe headache that does not settle, vision changes, severe pain beneath the ribs, sudden swelling of the face or hands, breathlessness, confusion, vomiting or reduced baby movements. Do not wait for the next appointment if these symptoms appear. More detail is available on [Pre-eclampsia](/conditions/pre-eclampsia/).

Ask which findings led to the diagnosis, how often your blood pressure and blood tests need checking, what readings or symptoms require urgent help, and how the baby will be monitored. Ask how the timing and method of birth will be decided for your situation.