Hi there, mama. Pregnancy and motherhood come with so much joy—and sometimes a lot of worries that you may have already heard about something called postpartum preeclampsia. It’s not super common, but it’s important to know about, just in case. So, let’s break it down.
Postpartum preeclampsia happens when your blood pressure goes above 140/90 after you’ve had your baby. It’s most likely to show up in the first 48 hours after delivery, but it can appear as late as six weeks postpartum. You might think, “I never had high blood pressure before, so I don’t need to worry,” but that’s not always the case. It can happen to anyone, even if your pregnancy was smooth.
Why Does It Happen?
It’s not fully understood why postpartum preeclampsia occurs, but experts think the rapid changes in hormones and fluids after birth might play a role. There are some risk factors, too—like having gestational hypertension during pregnancy, carrying multiples, old maternal age, having diabetes, or being overweight.
What to Watch For
Here’s the tricky part: sometimes it doesn’t have clear symptoms at first. But if you feel “off”—things like unexplained headaches, blurry vision, swelling in your legs, hands, or face, shortness of breath, nausea, or sudden weight gain—don’t ignore it. These can be warning signs, and it’s better to call your doctor and find out it’s nothing than to wait.
Why it’s Serious
If postpartum preeclampsia isn’t treated, it can lead to seizures, strokes, and damage to your liver, kidneys, or brain. I know that sounds scary, but here’s the good news: with early treatment, most women recover fully and go on to enjoy this new chapter with their little ones.
What Happens If You Have it?
If your doctor diagnoses postpartum preeclampsia, they’ll likely prescribe medications to lower your blood pressure and prevent seizures. They’ll guide you on how to care for yourself—and your baby—while you recover. Breastfeeding? Let your doctor know, so they can choose meds that are safe for your baby.
Taking Care of Yourself
You can help your body heal by monitoring your blood pressure at home, eating healthy, staying active with gentle exercises like walking or yoga, and avoiding salty foods. Rest as much as you can (yes, it’s hard with a newborn), and don’t hesitate to lean on your support system.
The Bottom Line
Postpartum preeclampsia can feel overwhelming, but catching it early makes all the difference. Pay attention to how you feel, and if something doesn’t seem right, speak up. You’re not alone in this—you’ve got your healthcare team, your family, and support groups cheering you on. You’ve got this, mama.
