Preeclampsia in Twin Pregnancy: Symptoms, Risks & What to Expect

Question
Hello,
I'm wondering if you know anything about preeclampsia in twin pregnancy.  I am almost 33 weeks with twins and am experiencing some preeclampsia, although we are still waiting for the results of a 24 hour urine test to see if there is protein in my urine.  My blood pressure varies, from being very high 144/99 to 127/80 after resting for a half hour after a non-stress test at the doctor's office.  My doctor is a MFM and mentioned at my appointment on Friday that if my 24 hour urine shows increased protein, I would need to spend the rest of my pregnancy in the hospital.  I am hoping to get to 37 weeks and do a scheduled c-section since baby A is breech.  I have a 2 1/2 year old at home and can't bear the thought of being away from him, and feel like the hospital is the worst place to get rest and keep my bp down, that I would do better at home, with someone watching my son during the day.  Just wondering if you have any thoughts and should I seek a second opinion if she does recommend hospital bedrest for the next month.  Thank you!

Answer
Dear Sarah

I wonder how you say you have pre-eclampsia while you have no idea about the amount of protein in urine?? In fact your blood pressure is mildly elevated. A blood pressure up to 159/109 is considered a mild elevation. Even if you have proteinuria of + or ++, with this level of hypertension, there will be a need for increased monitoring for you and your baby but hospitalization may not be necessary.

Because it is difficult to give you a solid advice on what to do exactly without examining you, my advice is to seek a second opinion from another obstetrician in your area.

Good Luck