Preeclampsia Warning Signs to Know | HEARD
Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication that can develop suddenly and become life-threatening within hours. Knowing the warning signs could save your life and your baby's life. Don't wait — if you have these symptoms, get help immediately.
What's Happening
Preeclampsia is a condition characterized by high blood pressure and often protein in the urine, usually developing after 20 weeks of pregnancy. It affects the blood vessels and can damage organs including the liver, kidneys, and brain.
Key facts about preeclampsia:
- Affects 5-8% of pregnancies
- Can develop during pregnancy OR after delivery (postpartum preeclampsia)
- Can progress rapidly from mild to severe
- The only cure is delivery of the baby
- Can lead to eclampsia (seizures) or HELLP syndrome if untreated
- Black women are 60% more likely to develop preeclampsia
Risk factors include: first pregnancy, age under 20 or over 35, obesity, multiple pregnancy (twins+), history of high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, autoimmune conditions, or previous preeclampsia.
Call 911 or Go to L&D/ER IMMEDIATELY If You Have
- Severe headache that won't go away with medication
- Vision changes: blurry vision, seeing spots, flashing lights, or temporary vision loss
- Severe pain in upper right abdomen (under ribs) or shoulder pain
- Sudden swelling in face or hands (especially if rapid onset)
- Blood pressure reading of 140/90 or higher
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Nausea or vomiting in second half of pregnancy (not morning sickness)
- Decreased urination or dark urine
- Confusion or altered mental state
- Seizures (this is eclampsia — call 911 immediately)
What To Do Next – Step by Step
Know Your Blood Pressure Numbers
Get a home blood pressure monitor. Blood pressure of 140/90 or higher needs immediate attention. 160/110 or higher is a hypertensive emergency — call 911 or go to the ER immediately.
Monitor for Warning Signs Daily
Check for swelling in hands and face (not just ankles), weigh yourself daily (sudden weight gain of 5+ lbs in a week can indicate fluid retention), and pay attention to headaches and vision changes.
Don't Wait for Your Next Appointment
If you have ANY warning signs, call your OB/midwife immediately or go to Labor & Delivery. Don't wait until your next scheduled visit. Preeclampsia can progress quickly.
Trust Your Instincts
You know your body. If something feels wrong, even if you can't explain exactly what, seek care. It's always better to be checked and reassured than to wait and have complications.
Advocate for Testing
If you have concerns, request blood pressure check, urine protein test, and blood work (liver enzymes, platelet count). Say: 'I'm concerned about preeclampsia and want to be tested.'
Stay Vigilant Postpartum
Preeclampsia can develop up to 6 weeks after delivery. Don't assume you're 'in the clear' after birth. Continue monitoring for warning signs and seek care if they develop.
What To Say – Scripts You Can Use
When calling your provider:
"I'm [X weeks] pregnant and I'm concerned about preeclampsia. I'm experiencing [specific symptoms]. My blood pressure is [reading if known]. Should I come in or go to the hospital?"
At the hospital check-in:
"I'm pregnant and I'm having symptoms of preeclampsia: [list symptoms]. I need my blood pressure checked, urine tested for protein, and blood work done. I'm very concerned about my symptoms."
If symptoms are dismissed:
"Preeclampsia can be life-threatening. I have [specific symptoms] and risk factors including [if any]. I need a full workup before I can be reassured. Please document my symptoms and concerns in my chart."
Postpartum at the ER:
"I gave birth [X days/weeks] ago and I'm having symptoms that concern me for postpartum preeclampsia: [symptoms]. I need my blood pressure checked and to be evaluated for pregnancy-related complications."
Frequently Asked Questions
Document and Report Incidents in Real Time
HEARD helps you document symptoms, track concerns, and communicate with your healthcare team — so you're never dismissed again.
Related Resources
Postpartum Warning Signs
All the warning signs to watch for after giving birth.
Postpartum High Blood Pressure
Understanding and managing blood pressure after delivery.
Postpartum Headache: When to Worry
When a headache is a medical emergency.
How to Advocate for Yourself in the Hospital
Ensure you're heard during pregnancy and birth.