Pre-eclampsia is the most common of the serious complications of pregnancy.
Pre-eclampsia is a condition that affects some pregnant women, usually during the second half of pregnancy (from 20 weeks) or soon after their baby is delivered. (NICE 2022) If you are pregnant and worried or feel unwell please contact your GP or midwife immediately.
Pre-eclampsia facts you should be aware of:
- It is a disease some women get in pregnancy or shortly after they have given birth
- It is usually mild, but can be severe and can occur very suddenly
- If not properly managed and diagnosed it can be fatal for both mother and baby.
- Warning signs of pre-eclamspia are often high blood pressure and/or protein in your urine.
- They will check your blood pressure and urine at each appointment for signs of pre-eclampsia
- There is a new test to help diagnose pre-eclampsia (usually after 30 weeks)
I’m pregnant – what do I need to do?
Ensure you:
Always attend your antenatal appointments
Have your blood pressure taken at every visit
Have your urine checked – if protein is found this should prompt a further test to confirm
Go back to your GP or midwife straight away if you have any concerns
Make sure all your results are written in your maternity notes
Look out for:
Severe swelling of hands, feet or face
Severe pain under the ribs
Severe headaches
Visual disturbances e.g. flashing lights
Nausea/vomiting
Feeling unwell
If you have any of these symptoms when pregnant or after birth seek medical advice immediately. For more information on Covid 19 and antenatal care in pregnancy, please visit the NHS website.
What is pre-eclampsia: further information
The following information is for anyone who is considered at risk of pre-eclampsia or eclampsia and wants to know more about the condition. If you would like a physical copy of any of the information listed below, please email us at info@apec.org.uk or telephone 01386 761 848.
Low-Dose Aspirin For High-Risk Pregnancy
This information is for anyone who is considered at risk of pre-eclampsia or eclampsia and wants to know more about how doses of aspirin, given daily, may help to prevent the disease.
HELLP Syndrome
This publication is for anyone who has suffered from or may suffer from HELLP syndrome and wants to know more about the condition. It’s also for doctors and midwives involved in the care of former, current and potential sufferers.
The expert referral scheme
We have a network of experts on pre-eclampsia who have agreed to offer one-off consultations or second opinions to those with queries and concerns; you have to be referred via your GP. For further information, and to discuss your concerns please contact the helpline on 01386 761 848 or email info@apec.org.uk.