logo

Postpartum Preeclampsia

Postpartum preeclampsia is a rare but serious condition related to high blood pressure after you give birth. It’s most common within 48 hours of delivery but can occur up to six weeks after your baby is born. Postpartum preeclampsia can lead to strokes, seizures and other complications if not promptly treated.

Postpartum preeclampsia is different than preeclampsia, a condition that occurs while you’re pregnant. Postpartum preeclampsia only happens after your baby is born. Even people who have never had high blood pressure or preeclampsia can get postpartum preeclampsia.

If you have symptoms of postpartum preeclampsia, you need immediate medical attention. Once diagnosed and treated, the prognosis for a full recovery is very good.

When does postpartum preeclampsia start?

Most people develop symptoms of postpartum preeclampsia within 48 hours of childbirth. However, the condition can develop up to six weeks after delivery.

What are the risk factors for postpartum preeclampsia?

Certain factors increase your risk of getting postpartum preeclampsia. If you have any of the following conditions, you may be at higher risk:

There are several symptoms you might experience just after giving birth if you have postpartum preeclampsia. These include:

  • High blood pressure (140/90 mmHg or higher).
  • High levels of protein in your urine (proteinuria).
  • Headache (often severe).
  • Changes in vision like blurred vision or light sensitivity.
  • Swelling of your face, hands, feet or limbs.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Abdominal pain, usually near your ribs.
  • Decreased urination.
  • Rapid weight gain.
  • Shortness of breath.

If you’ve recently given birth and are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should seek immediate medical care. Postpartum preeclampsia can have serious consequences if not treated.

The exact cause is unknown. Healthcare providers know that certain factors increase your risk. Be sure to share your medical history with your provider, attend all prenatal and postnatal appointments and discuss any irregular symptoms you’re having. This can help your provider detect postpartum preeclampsia.

If your healthcare provider suspects you might have postpartum preeclampsia, they might perform the following tests:

  • Blood pressure check.
  • Blood tests to do a platelet count and check the function of your liver and kidneys.
  • Urinalysis to check your urine for protein.
  • Brain scan to look for possible brain damage if you have had a seizure.

How is postpartum preeclampsia treated?

If your healthcare provider determines you have postpartum preeclampsia, they may prescribe the following treatments:

  • Blood pressure medicine to lower your pressure levels.
  • Antiseizure medicine, such as magnesium sulfate, to prevent seizures (one of the most common risks of postpartum preeclampsia).
  • Anticoagulant (blood thinner) medications to reduce the risk of blood clots.
 

Let your healthcare provider know if you’re breastfeeding so they can advise whether the medications are safe for your baby.

Does postpartum preeclampsia go away on its own?

No. It requires immediate medical attention. If you have any symptoms of preeclampsia after childbirth, contact your provider immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.

What are the complications of postpartum preeclampsia?

Postpartum preeclampsia can lead to serious complications without treatment, including:

  • Permanent damage to your brain, liver and kidneys.
  • Seizures.
  • Excess fluid in your lungs (pulmonary edema).
  • Stroke.
  • Blood clots.
  • HELLP syndrome.
  • Death.

How long does postpartum preeclampsia last?

It could take several days to a few weeks for the medication to lower your blood pressure to a safe level. Once your blood pressure is manageable, you’re less at risk for other complications.

How do I recover from postpartum preeclampsia?

Recovering from childbirth is hard. Do your best to meet the needs of your baby and yourself during this time. If you have postpartum preeclampsia, you may need extra time in the hospital for closer monitoring. Rest as much as you can and try to focus on your health. Be sure to keep all postnatal appointments and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Can you avoid getting postpartum preeclampsia?

No, there’s no way to avoid or prevent postpartum preeclampsia. The best thing you can do is be aware of the symptoms and discuss your complete medical history with your healthcare provider.

 

When should I go to the hospital for postpartum preeclampsia?

Watch for warning signs of postpartum preeclampsia and trust your instincts. Seek help when you’re not feeling well or when something feels off.

Contact your healthcare provider right away if you have symptoms like headache, swelling in your hands and face or changes in vision. You may need immediate medical attention at the nearest emergency room if you have a seizure or become short of breath.

Will I get preeclampsia again?

If you’ve had postpartum preeclampsia, you’re at higher risk of developing it again. Your healthcare provider may want to monitor you more closely throughout a future pregnancy for signs of preeclampsia.

  • American Academy of Family Physicians. Postpartum Preeclampsia (https://familydoctor.org/condition/postpartum-preeclampsia/). Accessed 7/6/2022.
  • Eunice Kennedy ShriverNational Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Preeclampsia and Eclampsia (https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/preeclampsia/conditioninfo). Accessed 7/6/2022.
  • March of Dimes. Postpartum Preeclampsia (https://www.marchofdimes.org/it-starts-with-mom/postpartum-preeclampsia.aspx). Accessed 7/6/2022.
  • New York State Department of Health. Antepartum and Postpartum Preeclampsia and Eclampsia Management in the Emergency Department (ED): Evaluation and Diagnosis (https://www.health.ny.gov/publications/2038.pdf). Accessed 7/6/2022.
  • Preeclampsia Foundation. Postpartum Preeclampsia (https://www.preeclampsia.org/postpartum-preeclampsia). Accessed 7/6/2022.

Related Topics

Diabetes and Exercise

Exercise, Lifestyle, And Your Bones

How to Avoid Overheating During Exercise

mobile

Ad

Women have unique health issues. And some of the health issues that affect both men and women can affect women differently.

Read More

Book your appointment TODAY!

Search on the closest Doctor to your location and book based on specialty. EARN 10 POINTS more with CuraPOINT.

BOOK
Edit Template

About Us

Curafile is a Medical Cyclopedia, biggest Healthcare Curated Network Globally, serves citizens, service providers in one place.

© 2026 Part of DENAMICA. All rights reserved.

Powered by
►
Necessary cookies enable essential site features like secure log-ins and consent preference adjustments. They do not store personal data.
None
►
Functional cookies support features like content sharing on social media, collecting feedback, and enabling third-party tools.
None
►
Analytical cookies track visitor interactions, providing insights on metrics like visitor count, bounce rate, and traffic sources.
None
►
Advertisement cookies deliver personalized ads based on your previous visits and analyze the effectiveness of ad campaigns.
None
Powered by