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Preeclampsia (pregnancy headache warning)

Also called: Preeclampsia, high blood pressure in pregnancy, toxemia

High blood pressure with signs of organ strain after 20 weeks of pregnancy or after birth. It can become dangerous quickly for parent and baby.

WhenAfter 20 weeks or up to 6 weeks after birth
Warning signsBad headache, vision changes, upper belly pain
CureDelivery

Overview

Low-dose aspirin from 12 weeks lowers risk for people at high risk.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • High blood pressure in pregnancy

Less common

  • Severe headache
  • Vision changes
  • Swelling of face or hands
  • Upper right belly pain

Look up a symptom: Headache

When to get medical care

Call 911Heavy bleeding, severe belly pain, a seizure, or fewer baby movements: call 911 or go to labor and delivery. Or a severe headache, vision changes, or shortness of breath.
Get care todayBlood pressure 140/90 or higher.
See a doctor soonSudden swelling.

Causes

Placenta problems.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • First pregnancy
  • Twins
  • High blood pressure
  • Over 35

Possible complications

Diagnosis

Blood pressure and urine checks.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Urine protein:
  • Blood tests:

Treatment

Follow your team's plan.

Self-care

  • Check blood pressure at home if advised
  • Know the warning signs

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

MedicineHelps withGood to know
Low-dose aspirin
Prevention in high-risk pregnanciesOnly if advised.
Blood pressure medicines
High pressure

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Early delivery when needed.

Prevention

To lower risk:

  • Low-dose aspirin if advised

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to an OB-GYN or midwife; high-risk pregnancies may see a maternal-fetal medicine doctor.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • After birth: It can still happen up to 6 weeks later.

Outlook

Most recover after delivery.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • Should I take aspirin?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Preeclampsia (pregnancy headache warning)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.