Pre-eclampsia: signs, checks and when to call

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy condition that causes high blood pressure. Most cases are mild and found at routine checks, which is exactly why every appointment includes a blood pressure reading and a pee test. In a small number of people it becomes serious, so it is worth knowing the warning signs.

Symptoms to take seriously

You may feel completely well. If symptoms happen, they are usually later in pregnancy, but they can start after the birth too.

• A severe headache that does not go away with simple painkillers
• Vision changes, like blurred sight or flashing lights
• Pain just below your ribs
• Sudden swelling of your face, hands or feet
• Heartburn that does not go away with heartburn medicine
• Being sick (vomiting), or feeling very unwell

Who is more likely to get it?

Anyone can. The NHS lists a higher chance if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease or an autoimmune condition like lupus, or you had pre-eclampsia before. Other factors include it being your first pregnancy, being 40 or over, being from a Black or South Asian background, having twins or more, a close relative who had it, 10 or more years since your last pregnancy, or a BMI of 35 or more before pregnancy. Having a risk factor does not mean you will get it.

Can it be reduced?

At your booking appointment, and again in the second trimester, your midwife checks your risk. NICE says people at higher risk should take 75 to 150mg of aspirin daily from 12 weeks until the birth. Only take it if a midwife or doctor advises you to, and do not start calcium or aspirin on your own. Going to every appointment is the best protection.

Treatment

There is no cure except having the baby, which is why timing of birth is carefully planned. You may have extra checks, scans and medicine to lower your blood pressure. If pre-eclampsia is severe, you will be looked after in hospital. Birth is often advised by 37 weeks, or sooner if you or the baby become unwell. Blood pressure checks continue after you go home, and symptoms usually go once the baby is born.