What to expect from induction of labour for pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy-related condition involving high blood pressure and possible effects on organs such as the kidneys or liver. Your team considers blood-pressure readings, blood and urine tests, symptoms, pregnancy stage, fetal growth and the baby’s wellbeing when planning birth. Delivery may be recommended if continuing the pregnancy becomes less safe for you or your baby.

If your cervix is not ready, a pessary, tablet or balloon can prepare it. Once suitable, the waters may be broken and oxytocin given through a drip. Blood pressure, urine output, symptoms and blood tests may be followed closely. The baby’s heart rate is monitored, and medicines may be used to control blood pressure or reduce seizure risk when clinically indicated.

Take prescribed medicines exactly as directed and bring your maternity notes and current medicines list. Tell staff about headache, visual changes, upper abdominal pain, nausea, breathlessness or reduced fetal movements. Ask how monitoring will affect movement, food and drink, and discuss pain relief options. An epidural may be considered after your platelet count and other results are reviewed.

Contact your maternity unit immediately for a severe or persistent headache, flashing lights or blurred vision, pain beneath the ribs, sudden swelling, vomiting, breathlessness, reduced fetal movements, bleeding or leaking fluid. Call emergency services for collapse, severe breathing difficulty or a seizure. These symptoms need prompt assessment whether or not induction has started.

Ask what your blood pressure and test results mean, why birth is advised now, which medicines you may receive and how the baby will be monitored. Ask what happens if induction does not progress, whether your platelet results affect anaesthesia and how blood pressure will be followed after birth.