Understanding Preeclampsia in Pregnancy
Preeclampsia is a serious condition that can happen during pregnancy. It’s not common, but understanding it is important. Being aware helps you spot warning signs early. It also makes sure you get the right care. At the birth center, we monitor for preeclampsia at every prenatal visit so that you and your baby remain safe.
What is preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that causes high blood pressure and can harm other organs, like the kidneys or liver. This usually happens after the 20th week of pregnancy. However, it can start earlier or even after birth.
Key symptoms include:
- Persistent high blood pressure readings
- Protein in the urine
- Swelling in the face, hands, or sudden swelling in the feet
- Severe or ongoing headaches
- Vision changes such as blurriness, flashing lights, or seeing spots
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
Not every headache or swelling means you have preeclampsia. Still, you should take these symptoms seriously.
Who is at risk?
Some women have a higher chance of developing preeclampsia, including:
- First-time mothers
- Women with a history of high blood pressure
- Pregnancies with twins, triplets, or more
- Those with preexisting conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or autoimmune disorders
- Women with a history of preeclampsia in previous pregnancies
Even if you are healthy and considered low risk, you can still develop preeclampsia. That is why consistent monitoring and prenatal care are essential for everyone.
How do birth centers monitor for preeclampsia?
At every prenatal visit, your midwife checks your blood pressure. They also test your urine for protein. They also ask about any symptoms such as swelling, headaches, or vision changes. Birth centers provide personal and relaxed care. This allows midwives to notice small changes that could indicate a problem.
If you notice anything unusual in your readings or symptoms, we will evaluate you right away.
Can you stay at a birth center with preeclampsia?
The short answer is no. Birth centers specialize in low-risk pregnancies, and preeclampsia changes your risk status. This condition often needs hospital care. Hospitals offer better monitoring and treatments that a freestanding birth center can’t provide.
Choosing to transfer is not a failure. It is a decision made for safety and the best possible outcome for both of you.
What happens if you develop preeclampsia?
If you get preeclampsia, your midwife will set up a smooth transfer to the hospital. The hospital team will receive your records and care history ahead of time to prepare themselves. But your midwife can provide postpartum care after birth.
You can’t fully control preeclampsia, so it’s important to keep that in mind. Even healthy pregnancies can get this condition. Early detection is key to keeping you safe.
Preventive Tips and What to Watch For
You can’t fully stop preeclampsia, but you can take steps for a healthy pregnancy:
- Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables, and protein
- Stay active with pregnancy-safe exercises
- Attend all prenatal visits without skipping appointments
- Report symptoms like headaches, swelling, or vision changes immediately
- Stay hydrated and manage stress when possible
Preeclampsia is uncommon in healthy pregnancies. Still, knowing the signs and having a reliable care team helps you stay prepared.
To learn more about how we monitor and support pregnancy health, you can visit birthcenterstoneoak.com or explore our YouTube channel.
