If you have mild preeclampsia before your 37th week of pregnancy, you and your baby will be monitored closely. The earlier in your pregnancy you developed preeclampsia or the more severe it is, the more likely you will require hospitalization, bedrest, and closer monitoring.
You may be referred to a specialist (a perinatologist or maternal-fetal medicine physician) who determines which tests should be administered and when you shuld deliver. Your blood pressure is measured several times a day. Your blood counts, liver enzymes, and uric acid levels are measured once or twice a week. Appropriate management also includes daily monitoring for abnormal knee reflexes, visual changes, headaches, upper abdominal pain, and rapid weight gain. Your baby's condition is assessed through periodic ultrasound tests and monitoring of the baby's heart rate three times per day.
How long expectant management lasts is dependent upon how stable your condition is, how far along in your pregnancy you are, and your baby's health and weight. If your condition is stable, your doctor prolongs your pregnancy a few more weeks to reduce the risk of complications and future health problems to your baby related to delivery before term.
If your or your baby's condition worsens, you are given intravenous magnesium sulfate (to reduce your risk of seizures). If your blood pressure becomes dangerously high, you may also require anti-hypertensive medication. As soon as possible, labor is induced or you are delivered by cesarean section.
