Stacey Fowler rushed in for emergency C-section after pre-eclampsia diagnosis

Once again, Eastenders have taken on a bold pregnancy storyline. This time they are shining the spotlight on the pregnancy-related condition pre-eclampsia.

This week, viewers saw soap veteran Stacey hurried to hospital following a shocking seizure, which left her and her third baby in critical condition. The consultant told Stacey and husband Martin that she has pre-eclampsia and explained that their baby would need to be delivered by emergency ceasarean-section.

After the procedure, Stacey seemed to be out of harm’s way but the couple were left worrying about their baby, whose health remains uncertain.

Watch the Eastenders clip

More information about pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia is a condition that only occurs in pregnancy, and usually only from 20 weeks. Early signs of pre-eclampsia include raised blood pressure (hypertension) and the presence of protein in your urine (proteinuria).

In severe cases, it can be life threatening for mum and baby. However, most cases are mild, will have no effect on the pregnancy, and you may not experience any symptoms.

Pre-eclampsia symptoms

• A very painful headache that doesn’t go away after painkillers
• Sight problems, such as blurry vision or flashing
• Severe pain just below your ribs
• Sickness or nausea
• Heartburn that doesn’t go away after medication
• Sudden swelling of your face, hands or feet.

If you have any of these, seek medical help straight away.

Find out what causes pre-clampsia and how it is treated

Tommy’s research into pre-eclampsia

Specific conditions, like pre-eclampsia, can cause complications during and after pregnancy. Tommy’s funds research in the hope of reducing their effects on pregnancy outcomes.

The PHEONIX Trial

The PHEONIX trail is just one study looking at pre-eclampsia. The aim is to find out if delivery in women with pre-eclampsia between 34 and 37 weeks of pregnancy reduces complications for the mum without harming the baby.

If you would like to take part, please call the Trial Coordinator Anna Placzek on 01865289733 or email [email protected].

See all of our pre-eclampsia research

If you’ve been affected by the storyline

If Stacey’s storyline has worried you and you’d like to talk to someone about it, please call our PregnancyLine on 0800 0147 800 (Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm).