Pre-eclampsia (Preeclampsia): Signs, Risks and When to Get Help
What pre-eclampsia is, who is at higher risk, the warning symptoms and why antenatal checks matter.
Before you use this guide: This is general educational information, not an individual medical assessment. We do not identify a clinician reviewer on this page, so please confirm personal health decisions with your doctor, midwife or paediatrician.
Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy condition that usually starts after 20 weeks. It causes high blood pressure and can affect the kidneys, liver and other organs. It affects roughly 2 to 8 in every 100 pregnancies. Most cases are found early and managed well, which is why your blood pressure and urine are checked at antenatal appointments.
Who is at higher risk?
- A first pregnancy, or a long gap since your last one
- Pre-eclampsia in a previous pregnancy, or in your mother or sister
- High blood pressure, diabetes or kidney disease before pregnancy
- A twin or multiple pregnancy
- Being aged 40 or over, or having a body mass index of 35 or higher
- Certain autoimmune conditions
Warning signs
Early pre-eclampsia often causes no symptoms. Contact your doctor, midwife or maternity unit straight away if you notice:
- A severe headache that does not go away
- Problems with your vision, such as blurring, flashing lights or spots
- Pain just below the ribs, usually on the right side
- Sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet
- Vomiting, especially if it is new or sudden
- Feeling suddenly very unwell or having difficulty breathing
Some swelling is common in pregnancy and is usually harmless. What matters is a sudden change, or swelling together with other symptoms. Do not wait for your next appointment.
How it is managed
- Closer monitoring of blood pressure, urine, blood tests and your baby's growth
- Blood pressure medicine that is safe in pregnancy, when needed
- Sometimes a hospital stay for observation
- Planning the birth. Delivery is the only cure, so the timing depends on how severe it is and how many weeks pregnant you are.
Can it be prevented?
Some women at higher risk are advised to take low-dose aspirin from early in the second trimester, from about 12 weeks. Only do this if your doctor or midwife recommends it. Do not start aspirin on your own. Going to every antenatal appointment, staying active and eating well also support a healthy pregnancy.
After the birth
Pre-eclampsia can also develop, or continue, in the days and weeks after birth, up to about six weeks. Seek help for the warning signs above even after you have gone home. Having had pre-eclampsia also makes regular blood pressure checks important in later life.
Trusted resources to read next
These public health resources provide additional information. Guidance can vary by country, so prioritise advice from your own care team and local health service.
- NHS: Pregnancy — Pregnancy care, common symptoms, screening and complications.
- NHS: Week-by-week pregnancy guide — Pregnancy development and care by week.
This content is for general information only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and every baby is different. Always talk to your doctor, midwife or paediatrician about your own situation, and seek urgent care if you are worried.