What to expect from caesarean section for pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia can require birth to be brought forward when blood pressure, blood tests, symptoms or the baby's condition make continuing pregnancy unsafe. Your team will review these findings and explain whether a caesarean is advised. Before surgery, you may have blood pressure checks, blood tests, a cannula and medicine to reduce seizure risk or control blood pressure.

Most caesareans use a spinal or epidural anaesthetic, so you are awake while the baby is delivered through an abdominal and uterine incision. A screen separates the surgical area from your face. The team monitors you closely because pre-eclampsia can affect blood pressure and clotting. Recovery includes pain relief, observation, fluids and support with feeding and movement.

Follow the hospital's instructions about food, drink and medicines, and tell staff about allergies, previous anaesthetic problems, bleeding disorders and medicines you take. Arrange practical help for the first days at home. Walk as advised, keep the wound clean and take prescribed medicines on schedule. Do not stop blood-pressure treatment without medical advice; readings can remain high after birth.

Seek urgent maternity advice for a severe or persistent headache, vision changes, pain beneath the ribs, breathlessness, chest pain, a seizure, heavy bleeding, fever, worsening wound redness or swelling, or a blood-pressure reading your team has told you is dangerous. These symptoms need assessment even after delivery because pre-eclampsia can continue or worsen postpartum.

Ask why caesarean birth is recommended, which medicines you will receive, what anaesthetic is planned, how your baby will be monitored, how long blood-pressure checks will continue and which symptoms should prompt immediate review.