Signs of preeclampsia after giving birth

Preeclampsia can develop after delivery, including when pregnancy blood pressure was normal. Headache that persists despite rest or usual pain relief, blurred vision or flashing lights, pain beneath the ribs, nausea, vomiting, swelling of the face or hands, chest tightness or shortness of breath need prompt attention. Tiredness and disrupted sleep are common after birth, but they should not explain away severe or rapidly changing symptoms.

Contact your maternity team or urgent medical service as soon as a warning sign appears. Tell them you have recently given birth and mention any blood-pressure readings, medicines and delivery complications. Assessment may include blood pressure, urine, blood tests and checks of your heart and breathing. Keep taking prescribed treatment unless a clinician changes it; ask for help with the baby while you are being assessed.

Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, seizure, collapse, confusion, major vision loss or a severe headache with neurological changes. Do not drive yourself when faint, confused or seriously unwell. A postpartum emergency can occur after leaving hospital and should be treated urgently.

Could these symptoms be postpartum preeclampsia? What blood-pressure target and follow-up do I need? Which medicines are compatible with feeding my baby? Who should I call if symptoms recur after discharge?