Preeclampsia & High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy

Preeclampsia is raised blood pressure with effects on the kidneys or other organs, usually appearing after 20 weeks. It is taken seriously because it can progress, but with close monitoring, the right medication and well-timed delivery, mother and baby are kept safe. In higher-risk women, low-dose aspirin lowers the chance of it developing.

What preeclampsia is

It is more than high blood pressure alone — it reflects a problem with the placenta and blood vessels. It may cause swelling, headaches or visual changes, but can also be silent, which is why blood pressure and urine are checked at every antenatal visit.

Who is at higher risk

Risk is higher with a previous history, chronic high blood pressure, kidney disease, diabetes, a first pregnancy, twins, or a long gap between pregnancies. We assess this early — see first-trimester preeclampsia screening.

Prevention and monitoring

For women at higher risk, low-dose aspirin started before 16 weeks reduces the chance of preeclampsia. Monitoring includes blood pressure, urine protein, blood tests and extra growth and Doppler scans to check the baby.

Management and delivery

Mild cases are monitored closely; medication controls blood pressure where needed. The definitive treatment is delivery, and the timing balances the baby’s maturity against the mother’s safety — sometimes earlier delivery is the safest course, and we explain why.

Warning signs — seek urgent review

Contact us urgently for a severe headache, visual disturbance, sudden swelling of the face or hands, upper abdominal pain, or reduced fetal movements. These need prompt assessment, not waiting.