When to worry about severe abdominal pain in pregnancy with pre-eclampsia

Severe Abdominal Pain in Pregnancy is a common presentation of Pre-eclampsia. Pain may be felt in the upper abdomen or beneath the ribs, often on the right side, and can reflect irritation or strain involving the liver. It may be constant, worsening, or associated with nausea or vomiting. Other causes of abdominal pain are possible, so the symptom cannot identify its cause by itself; in someone with pre-eclampsia, however, it deserves prompt assessment.

Stop what you are doing and rest while arranging medical advice. Tell the maternity team that you are pregnant, have pre-eclampsia, and describe where the pain is, when it began, whether it is continuous, and whether it is getting stronger. Take your prescribed medicines as directed, but do not wait for them to relieve severe pain. Do not drive yourself if you feel faint, confused, breathless, or very unwell.

Seek emergency help immediately for severe or persistent pain, pain under the ribs, a severe headache, changes in vision, sudden swelling, repeated vomiting, shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, confusion, a seizure, vaginal bleeding, or reduced fetal movement. These signs can indicate that you or your baby needs urgent monitoring and treatment. If you cannot reach your maternity team promptly, use local emergency services.

Ask what may be causing the pain and whether you need blood pressure checks, urine testing, blood tests, or monitoring of the baby. Ask which symptoms should prompt a return to hospital, how to take your prescribed treatment, and who to contact outside routine appointment hours. Keep a record of the pain location, pattern, and accompanying symptoms to share with the clinical team.