> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.sonohealth.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Blood Pressure in Pregnancy and Preeclampsia

> What's normal for blood pressure in pregnancy, warning signs of preeclampsia, and how home monitoring fits alongside prenatal care.

Blood pressure is watched closely during pregnancy because changes can signal conditions like preeclampsia that need prompt care. Home monitoring can support — but never replace — your prenatal visits.

<Warning>
  High blood pressure in pregnancy can be serious. Seek care right away for a severe headache, vision changes, upper-abdominal pain, sudden swelling, or shortness of breath. Always follow your prenatal provider's instructions over any home reading.
</Warning>

## What's a normal blood pressure in pregnancy?

For most pregnant people, normal is similar to other adults — generally **under 120/80 mmHg**. Blood pressure often dips slightly in the second trimester and rises back toward baseline later. Because targets and concerns are individual in pregnancy, your provider will tell you what's normal for you.

## What is preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy condition involving new high blood pressure (typically after 20 weeks) along with signs that organs may be affected, such as protein in the urine. It can develop without obvious symptoms, which is why prenatal blood pressure checks matter. Warning signs can include a severe or persistent headache, vision changes, sudden swelling, and upper-right abdominal pain.

## How does home monitoring help?

If your provider asks you to track blood pressure between visits, a home monitor like the [BPpro](/blood-pressure/overview) lets you record readings using [proper technique](/blood-pressure/how-to-measure-at-home) and bring the log to appointments. This can help your care team spot trends — but home readings are a supplement to, not a substitute for, prenatal care.

## Tips for accurate pregnancy readings

* Sit quietly for five minutes, feet flat, arm supported at heart level.
* Use a [correctly sized cuff](/blood-pressure/upper-arm-vs-wrist).
* Take readings at consistent times and record them all.
* Report high or rapidly changing readings to your provider promptly.

## Connecting the dots with other tools

Many expecting parents also use a [home fetal doppler](/fetal-doppler/overview) for reassurance between visits. Like a blood pressure monitor, it supports peace of mind but doesn't replace professional monitoring — always follow up concerns with your provider.

***

**Related:** [How to Measure at Home](/blood-pressure/how-to-measure-at-home) · [When High Blood Pressure Is Dangerous](/blood-pressure/high-blood-pressure-when-to-worry) · [Cuff Size & Accuracy](/blood-pressure/upper-arm-vs-wrist) · [HeartBeats Fetal Doppler](/fetal-doppler/overview)