When is induction of labour recommended for pre-eclampsia?

Pre-eclampsia can affect blood pressure and the function of organs such as the kidneys or liver, and it can affect the placenta and baby’s growth. Your team may review blood pressure, urine, blood tests, symptoms, the baby’s growth, heart rate and fluid. The timing of birth is individual. Mild findings may allow observation with frequent reviews, while severe features can require hospital care and earlier delivery. Induction is considered only when vaginal birth is appropriate; a caesarean birth may be advised in some circumstances.

Attend blood pressure checks and fetal monitoring as arranged, take prescribed medicines exactly as directed, and tell the team about new symptoms. Ask how often you need review, what results would change the plan, and how your baby will be monitored during induction. Read more about [pre-eclampsia](/conditions/pre-eclampsia/) and [Induction of Labour](/treatments/pregnancy-and-birth-care/induction-of-labour/).

Seek urgent maternity assessment for a severe or persistent headache, blurred vision or flashing lights, pain beneath the ribs, sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, heavy bleeding, a seizure, or noticeably reduced baby movements. These symptoms need prompt assessment rather than waiting for your next appointment.

Ask which findings indicate pre-eclampsia severity, why induction is preferred or not preferred, how your blood pressure will be managed, and what would lead to caesarean birth.