When to worry about severe abdominal pain in pregnancy with HELLP syndrome

HELLP syndrome involves problems affecting red blood cells, liver function, and platelets. Pain under the ribs or in the upper abdomen may occur because the liver is affected. Nausea, vomiting, headache, visual disturbance, swelling, or feeling suddenly unwell can occur as well.

HELLP syndrome can occur with or without obvious high blood pressure, so the absence of a blood-pressure reading does not rule it out. Hospital assessment may include blood pressure checks, urine testing, blood tests, and fetal monitoring.

Contact your maternity unit immediately for severe abdominal pain during pregnancy if HELLP syndrome is known or suspected. If pain is intense, worsening, or accompanied by faintness, breathing difficulty, heavy bleeding, or confusion, call emergency services. Do not drive yourself when unwell.

Take your pregnancy records and medication list if this does not delay care. Tell clinicians when the pain began, where it is located, and whether you have headache, visual changes, nausea, or reduced fetal movement.

Seek emergency help for severe or persistent upper abdominal pain, severe headache, flashing lights or blurred vision, shortness of breath, fainting, confusion, seizures, heavy bleeding, or reduced baby movements. These symptoms need assessment without waiting for a routine appointment.

Which blood tests are abnormal? How are my liver function and platelet levels being monitored? How is my baby being monitored? What treatment and delivery planning may be needed, and which symptoms require immediate return?