When is caesarean section recommended for eclampsia?

Eclampsia involves a seizure associated with pregnancy-related high blood pressure. It can happen during pregnancy, labour or after birth. The immediate priorities are protecting breathing, controlling seizures, checking blood pressure and assessing both mother and baby.

The mode of birth depends on cervical findings, labour progress, the baby's condition, gestational age and how quickly vaginal birth could occur. A caesarean may be chosen if there is fetal distress, labour is not advanced, or continuing labour would add danger. The operation does not replace treatment for the seizure or blood pressure.

Eclampsia needs emergency hospital care. The maternity and anaesthesia teams may give seizure-preventing medicine, blood-pressure treatment and fluids while arranging birth. Tell staff about medicines, allergies, symptoms before the seizure and any pregnancy complications. After birth, monitoring continues because seizures and blood-pressure problems can persist.

Call emergency services for a seizure, collapse, severe headache, vision changes, confusion, severe upper abdominal pain, or breathlessness during pregnancy or after birth. Place the person on her side, protect her from injury, and do not put anything in her mouth while waiting for help.

Has my condition stabilised enough for birth? Why is caesarean recommended rather than induction or vaginal birth? What monitoring and medicines will I need after delivery? Which warning signs require immediate return to hospital?