High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy and After Birth
Many complications of preeclampsia can be prevented. MNPQC is working to raise awareness of preeclampsia in our communities by using the blue medical alert bands.
Get MNPQC's blood pressure resources
What is Preeclampsia?
Preeclampsia is a severe disorder that can affect many organs, including the brain, kidneys, and/or liver. It usually occurs in the last half of pregnancy, most often after 20 weeks, but it can also occur up to six weeks after the baby is born.
Preeclampsia can cause high blood pressure, protein in the urine, organ damage, seizures, stroke, and death.
Signs and Symptoms to look for
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Swelling in the face or hands
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Severe or constant headache
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Seeing spots or vision changes
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Pain in the upper right area of your belly
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Nausea or vomiting
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Sudden or rapid weight gain
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Shortness of breath
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Persistent heartburn
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Decrease or absence of urination
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High blood pressure
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Chest pain
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Confusion
When to Get Help
If you notice any of the symptoms of preeclampsia listed above, you should seek immediate medical attention.
Get a ride to your closest emergency room, or call 911 and report the symptoms you have been experiencing.
It is vital to inform healthcare providers if you are pregnant or have recently been pregnant.
Who is at Risk for Preeclampsia?
Certain factors may increase a person’s risk of developing preeclampsia during pregnancy. These include:
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First pregnancy
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A history of preeclampsia
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Family history of preeclampsia
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History of high blood pressure
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History of kidney disease
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Age 35 years or older
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Carrying more than one baby
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Diabetes, bleeding disorders, or specific autoimmune conditions
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BMI over 35
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In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) or fertility treatments
Long-Term Health Risks
Preeclampsia can have long-term health impacts for both mothers and the baby. For mothers, having preeclampsia increases the risk of future cardiovascular conditions such as heart disease, heart attack, or stroke. It is also linked to a higher likelihood of developing high blood pressure later in life and experiencing preeclampsia in future pregnancies. For babies, preeclampsia may increase the risk of preterm birth and stillbirth.
The Blue Band Project
Blue Bands are bracelets given to pregnant and postpartum patients diagnosed with preeclampsia to identify them as at risk for eclampsia and stroke.
If instructed to wear a blue band, keep it on until your healthcare provider advises removal. Wearing a blue band ensures all medical staff are aware of your condition and can provide you with rapid care.
For Patients Involved in the Blue Band Project:
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Leave the blue wristband on until your healthcare provider takes it off or tells you to
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Please continue your follow-up appointments, even if you feel well
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Your follow-up appointment after your delivery should be scheduled within 2-5 days of discharge
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Continue your prescribed medications as directed
Joanna’s Story
Joanna describes her experience with postpartum preeclampsia after her first pregnancy.
Patient Resources
National Institutes of Health: Preeclampsia and Eclampsia
This webpage from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides an overview of preeclampsia and eclampsia, including symptoms, risk factors, and potential complications. It also explains how these hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are diagnosed and managed to support the health of both mother and baby.
Preeclampsia Foundation
The Preeclampsia Foundation is an empowered community of patients and experts, with a diverse array of resources and support to help you have the best possible pregnancy – and to help you navigate the questions you have when you don’t have the best pregnancy outcomes.
Hear Her
CDC’s Division of Reproductive Health is committed to healthy pregnancies and deliveries for every person. The Hear Her campaign supports the CDC’s efforts to prevent pregnancy-related deaths by sharing potentially life-saving messages about urgent maternal warning signs.