May is Preeclampsia Awareness Month, a time to bring attention to a condition that affects thousands of women each year—often without warning.

Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and signs of organ involvement, typically after 20 weeks of pregnancy. It can also occur postpartum, which many families are not aware of.

Left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to significant complications for both mother and baby—including preterm birth, NICU admission, and in severe cases, life-threatening outcomes.

What Is Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is more than elevated blood pressure. It is a multi-system condition that can affect:

• The brain (headaches, seizures)
• The liver (pain, abnormal labs)
• The kidneys (protein in urine)
• The placenta (affecting baby’s growth and oxygen supply)

It can progress quickly, which is why early detection is critical.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Some symptoms may feel subtle or easy to dismiss—but they should never be ignored:

• Persistent or severe headaches
• Blurred vision, light sensitivity, or seeing spots
• Swelling of the face and hands
• Sudden weight gain
• Upper right abdominal pain
• Nausea or vomiting (especially later in pregnancy)
• Shortness of breath
• Elevated blood pressure

Important: Some women have no obvious symptoms, which is why routine prenatal care is essential.

Impact on Baby

Preeclampsia can affect how well the placenta functions, which may lead to:

• Decreased fetal growth
• Preterm delivery
• NICU admission
• Need for early intervention

As a NICU provider, I have cared for many babies born early due to maternal preeclampsia—each story is unique, and each family deserves compassionate support.

Postpartum Preeclampsia: What Many Don’t Know

Preeclampsia does not always end with delivery.

It can develop days to weeks postpartum, even in women who had normal pregnancies.

This is one of the most overlooked and dangerous aspects of the condition.If you experience symptoms after delivery, seek care immediately.

Supporting the Whole Mother

At Sage & Stone Holistic Counseling & Integrative Health, we believe in supporting not just the physical condition—but the emotional and nervous system impact as well.

Preeclampsia can bring:

• Fear and uncertainty
• Birth trauma
• Unexpected NICU experiences
• Postpartum anxiety or depression

Our approach includes:

✨ High-risk pregnancy emotional support
✨ NICU preparation and debriefing
✨ Trauma-informed counseling
✨ Nervous system regulation (breathwork, yoga therapy)
✨ Postpartum mental health care

When to Seek Help

Call your provider or seek immediate care if you experience:

• Severe headache that does not go away
• Vision changes
• Chest pain or shortness of breath
• Severe swelling or rapid weight gain
• Blood pressure readings ≥ 140/90

Trust your instincts. You know your body best.

You Are Not Alone

Preeclampsia can feel overwhelming—but with awareness, early detection, and the right support, outcomes can improve significantly.

If you are navigating a high-risk pregnancy, postpartum recovery, or a NICU journey, you deserve compassionate, expert care that sees the whole you.

Work With Me

At Sage & Stone, I offer concierge support for:

• Pregnancy and postpartum mental health
• NICU preparation and trauma support
• Nervous system regulation
• Integrative wellness and recovery

✨ Reach out to begin your journey toward healing and support.