Severe gestational hypertension: what to know

Gestational hypertension is high blood pressure that develops during pregnancy without the protein or organ findings used to define pre-eclampsia at the time of assessment. Severe readings can strain the brain, heart, kidneys, liver, and placenta, and the situation can change even when you feel well. Clinicians may repeat blood pressure checks, test urine and blood, and assess fetal growth and wellbeing.

If you have been told your blood pressure is severely high, contact your maternity unit immediately and follow its instructions about coming in. Bring your medication list and pregnancy records if this does not delay care. Treatment may include observation, medication, blood tests, fetal monitoring, and discussion of timing and mode of birth. Antenatal Care Package appointments can support ongoing surveillance, but they do not replace urgent assessment.

Get emergency maternity help for a severe or persistent headache, blurred vision or flashing lights, pain under the ribs or in the upper abdomen, sudden swelling of the face or hands, shortness of breath, chest pain, confusion, seizure, vaginal bleeding, or reduced fetal movement. Do not wait for a routine appointment when these symptoms occur.

Ask what your readings mean, whether urine or blood tests show organ involvement, how often you need monitoring, which medicines are safe, and what symptoms should trigger a return to hospital. Ask how fetal wellbeing will be followed and how decisions about birth will be made.