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Preeclampsia in pregnancy is a serious condition that causes high blood pressure, usually after 20 weeks or shortly after birth. Learn symptoms and care.
How common is preeclampsia?
Early signs and symptoms of preeclampsia
When to seek medical help
What causes preeclampsia?
Who is most at risk for preeclampsia?
How preeclampsia is diagnosed
How preeclampsia is treated
When will you need to deliver?
Can preeclampsia cause complications?
What to expect after delivery
Emotional impact and support
FAQs around preeclampsia
Preeclampsia in pregnancy is a condition in which a woman has persistent high blood pressure that usually presents after 20 weeks of pregnancy or in the postpartum period. It can be associated with high levels of protein in the urine, a new onset of decreased blood platelets, kidneys or liver issues, and visual disturbances. Prompt diagnosis and management are imperative to prevent it from developing into eclampsia, which involves seizures. Both conditions pose significant life-threatening risks.
Preeclampsia is relatively uncommon, affecting an estimated 2% to 8% of pregnancies worldwide. There are approximately 46,000 maternal deaths due to preeclampsia each year and around 500,000 fetal or newborn deaths. Global and regional causes of maternal deaths 2009–20: a WHO systematic analysis. Lancet Glob Health. 2025.
While the vast majority of pregnancies are not impacted, it's crucial to be aware of the signs as preeclampsia is a potentially life-threatening condition and requires monitoring if diagnosed. My experience as a midwife has shown me that staying informed is your best defence. We routinely check for it at your antenatal and postnatal appointments, so you don't need to worry about missing it.
Sometimes, the earliest signs of preeclampsia in pregnancy are subtle and can be easily missed. This is why regular antenatal check-ups are so important.
The two main indicators of preeclampsia, high blood pressure and protein in your urine, are often discovered during your routine antenatal checks. You may not have any physical symptoms at all. This is why a midwife or doctor will measure your blood pressure and test a urine sample at every appointment.
While some signs may not be obvious, others require immediate attention. If you experience any of the following, you must contact a healthcare professional immediately:
My most important piece of advice is: trust your instincts. If you feel something isn't right, or you notice any of the warning signs for preeclampsia, don't hesitate. Call your local maternity unit, Midwife, GP, or NHS 111 right away. Preeclampsia, if diagnosed, can be life-threatening, it's always better to be cautious and get checked out. Asking questions is key to staying safe.
You can find a list of helpful questions to ask your Midwife here.
What causes preeclampsia in pregnancy isn't fully understood. However, it's widely believed to be linked to problems with the placenta, the organ that connects the mother's blood supply to the baby's. It's thought that the blood vessels in the placenta don't develop correctly, which can restrict blood flow and lead to high blood pressure and other issues associated with preeclampsia. There may be genetic factors involved, as we know that the condition often runs in families.
While anyone can develop preeclampsia, some factors can increase your risk. It's also important to note that having a risk factor does not always mean that you will get preeclampsia.
The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) have divided the risk factors into two categories: High Risk and Moderate Risk
High Risk
Moderate Risk
If you have two or more high risk factors for preeclampsia, your midwife or doctor will recommend a daily low dose (75mg - 150mg) of aspirin starting from the 12th week of pregnancy until you give birth.
Diagnosing preeclampsia is a straightforward process based on routine checks. Your Midwife or doctor will:
The treatment for preeclampsia depends on how severe it is and how far along you are in your pregnancy. It often involves:
Delivery is the only definitive cure for preeclampsia. For many, this happens around 37-38 weeks of pregnancy. The timing depends on how well the condition is managed. If the symptoms worsen or if there's a risk to the mother or baby, doctors may recommend an earlier delivery. In those moments, it's vital to have open communication with your healthcare team.
Here's how to talk to healthcare professionals effectively. To help you prepare, we also have a guide on labour and birth.
While most cases are managed safely, preeclampsia can lead to complications if not treated. The most serious complication is eclampsia, which involves seizures. Other potential issues include organ damage (liver, kidneys), blood clotting problems, or growth problems for the baby due to poor blood flow. However, with proper management, these are rare.
After the baby’s birth, the symptoms of preeclampsia typically begin to improve quickly. You'll continue to be monitored for a while, but most women make a full recovery. It's normal to feel exhausted and overwhelmed. The fourth trimester is a real thing, and it's essential to rest and recover.
Dealing with a serious pregnancy complication like preeclampsia can be emotionally draining and frightening. It's okay to feel this way. Please don't hesitate to reach out for support. Talk to your partner, family, or friends. Your Midwife or GP can also provide guidance on local support groups or mental health resources.
The main symptoms include high blood pressure, swelling of the face, hands, or feet, severe headaches, vision problems, and pain below the ribs. In some cases, there are no noticeable symptoms.
It most commonly develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy, particularly in the third trimester. It can also occur in the days or weeks following birth. Can preeclampsia happen in early pregnancy? Yes, although it is extremely rare.
Yes, with early detection and careful medical management, most babies do well. The key to a good outcome is the timing of delivery, which is carefully decided by doctors to ensure the best possible health for both you and your baby.
The exact cause is unknown, but it's believed to be linked to problems with the placenta. When blood flow to the placenta is affected, it can lead to high blood pressure and other issues associated with the condition.
