Just before Christmas 2025 I had onset of headache, visual disturbances and high blood pressure. I would’ve been about 30 weeks at this time. I was admitted to hospital for testing but the general consensus was that it was unlikely I had pre eclampsia at this time despite the symptoms and some of my bloods being “off”. I had no protein in my urine, the high blood pressure was treated and I was discharged. Up until 37 weeks I monitored my blood pressure and symptoms closely - my blood pressure was never “high” as such, but it wasn’t my normal and I noticed a very slow rise over these weeks which I flagged with my midwife. My urine screening never tested positive for protein at my check ups and Bub’s growth was unaffected so nobody was concerned I was showing early signs of pre-e. At 38 weeks I was induced for unrelated reasons (premature rupture of membranes) which ended in an emergency c-section as labour didn’t progress. I remember over the next few days not feeling “right” and every time the staff took my blood pressure it was elevated (over 140/90) but was consistently dismissed. I remember also telling staff it felt funny to move my arms and legs. Everyone said I would feel this way because my body was recovering from major surgery. I was discharged home but over the next five days had a rapid deterioration and development of severe pre-e symptoms. My blood pressure was 180/110, I lost hearing in one ear, had issues with coordinating my limbs to walk and perform daily tasks, and was experiencing shortness of breath especially when laying flat. Needless to say I was treated very seriously on representation to hospital - but now reflecting on this experience, I don’t think anyone ever had post partum pre-e on their minds. If I can share any advice to other women is don’t be afraid to speak up, and continue to be that squeaky wheel if you don’t feel right within yourself. I often think if I’d put my foot down the first time I noticed my blood pressure was elevated immediately post birth, it may have prevented a premature discharge and I could have been treated for the pre-e before it became so severe. I’m hoping in my next pregnancy this experience will allow me to advocate better for myself and also educate my care team.