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Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication involving high blood pressure, usually developing after 20 weeks, and it's one of the more serious conditions pregnant people are screened for at every prenatal visit for good reason — early detection matters.
Warning signs to watch for
- Severe or persistent headache that doesn't improve with rest or medication.
- Vision changes — blurriness, seeing spots, or light sensitivity.
- Swelling, especially sudden or severe swelling in the face or hands.
- Upper abdominal pain, often under the ribs on the right side.
- Nausea or vomiting that's new, especially later in pregnancy.
- Sudden weight gain over a short period.
- Shortness of breath.
Why routine prenatal visits matter
Blood pressure and urine protein checks at every prenatal appointment are specifically designed to catch preeclampsia early, often before symptoms are noticeable — this is part of why regular prenatal care matters even when you feel completely fine.
Risk factors
- First pregnancy, or a first pregnancy with a new partner.
- Personal or family history of preeclampsia.
- Chronic high blood pressure, kidney disease, or diabetes.
- Carrying multiples (twins or more).
- Being over 35 or under 20.
- Obesity.
Having a risk factor doesn't mean preeclampsia will develop — it means your provider may monitor you more closely.
Preeclampsia after delivery
Preeclampsia can develop or persist even after delivery (postpartum preeclampsia), which is why the warning signs remain worth watching for in the weeks after birth, not just during pregnancy.
What to do if you notice symptoms
Contact your provider promptly, or go to an emergency room, for any of the warning signs above — don't wait for your next scheduled appointment. Preeclampsia can progress quickly, and early treatment matters significantly.
