Author:  Anonymous

I have three beautiful children aged 5, 3 and 2, I suffered pre-eclampsia with each of my children.  I was 27 when I had my first child I went through my pregnancy with no complications other that the usual morning sickness.  I worked 37-40 hours per week and although felt tired did not have any other complaints.  In my 33rd week I was out on a business call and was getting out of the car when I temporarily lost my vision due to white lights and stars.  After taking a few minutes to recover myself I proceeded to complete the business call, I was not aware of how serious this incident was.  I started to develop swelling and put this down to pregnancy and heat.  I continued to feel slightly unwell and attended my GP who recorded blood pressure of 150/100 he asked me to return for a further check two days later and again recorded a blood pressure of 150/100.  He instructed me to quit work at this stage I was 34weeks pregnant and very reluctant to quit work but followed instruction.  I attended an antenatal apt in my 35th week (I was so swollen  I had to get shoes 2 sizes bigger to go to the apt) again my blood pressure was recorded as 150/105 a dynamap reading managed to reduce this to 140/95.  The doctor sent me home to rest. The following day a midwife called at the house to check my blood pressure it was reading 165/120 she contacted the hospital and as it was Friday was advised that I should rest and she should call with me on Monday.  The midwife insisted that I be seen on the maternity ward.  I arrived at the hospital 1 hr later, my blood pressure again settled slightly with a dynamap reading and the house doctor advised me to go home.  A midwife recommended he check my reflexes before discharging me - I was admitted straight away.  They continued to monitor me for the next five days carrying out blood tests and regular bp checks.  On day six my consultant advised they were going to deliver I was 36weeks pregnant.  They moved me straight to the delivery suite where a half hearted attempt was made to induce me (I believe this was just to pacify me) and strongly advised I have an epidural which would help lower my bp.  I followed all instructions and after only 5 hours was informed that they were going to do a c-section.  I asked for a senior consultant as I was very nervous at this stage.  The senior consultant was obliging and carried out the section.  I delivered a healthy 6lb 4oz 46cm baby boy.  Unfortunately I started to bleed very heavily and they thought they would have to perform a hysterectomy - lucky for me after some great work the bleeding was stopped and I was closed up and moved to recovery.  On transfer my body began to shake uncontrollably, my bp rocketed and I became very ill.  I remember the room being filled with loads of doctors and midwives and the anaethist advising me to stay calm (some chance!).  A magnesium sulphate line was put up and my body regained control although the following 24 hours were spent in and out of conciousness.  I don't particularly remember my first days with my baby but am very grateful to be alive!  I spent nearly 2 weeks in hospital after this and was closely monitored for a further 4 weeks.

My second pregnancy was very carefully monitored and I was on bp medication from 22 weeks.  Again I was delivered by c-section at 36 weeks (a healthy 6lb 3oz 47cm baby boy!) but it was very controlled and no drama!  I was up and about within 6 hours of the section.  It was fantastic!  I remained on bp meds for six weeks after delivery.

My third pregnancy was within a year of my second and my bp became very elevated at an early stage. I was on bp meds from 12 weeks and was very closely monitored.  Following  severe abdominal pain, increased reflexes and protein in my urine I was admitted a prepared for delivery at 28weeks.  They continued to up the bp medication and I was allowed home after 1 week for 5 days but was readmitted following further complications.  I delivered by c-section at 34 weeks a healthy baby girl (5lb 4oz - 45cm) on commencement of the section my bp with meds was 140/110 on cutting of cord it returned to 120/85! 

I am very grateful to all the medical staff for their kind care and attention because without them I doubt if I would have one baby nevermind three and I may not even be here myself.

Following my experience I would advise always trust your instincts and try to learn about what your syptoms mean don't ever take anything for granted.