Antenatal corticosteroids may cause significant, transient changes in FHR and variability up to 4 days after administration [363], [364] and [365]. Prior to elective Caesarean delivery at ⩽386 weeks, antenatal corticosteroids decrease the excess neonatal respiratory morbidity and NICU admissions [366] and [367]. All subgroup analyses have not necessarily revealed such benefits following Caesarean or vaginal delivery [360]. No cost effectiveness data were identified

for hypertensive pregnant women. Delivery is the only intervention that initiates resolution of preeclampsia, and women with gestational hypertension or pre-existing hypertension may develop preeclampsia. 1. Consultation with an obstetrician (by telephone if necessary) is mandatory in women with severe preeclampsia (III-B; Low/Strong). 1. For women with gestational hypertension (without preeclampsia) at ⩾370 weeks’ gestation, delivery within days should be discussed (I-B; Low/Weak). 1. GSK1349572 molecular weight For women with uncomplicated pre-existing hypertension who are otherwise well at ⩾370 weeks’ gestation, delivery should be considered at Fasudil molecular weight 380–396 weeks’ gestation (II-1B; Low/Weak). The Confidential Enquiries into Maternal Death have related underappreciation of risk in preeclampsia to potentially avoidable complications.

Subspecialty consultation has been advised, by telephone if necessary, particularly for women with severe preeclampsia [314]. The phrase, “planned delivery on the best day in the best way,” reflects the myriad of considerations regarding timing (and mode) of delivery out [325]. Timing delivery will reflect evolving adverse conditions (Table 2). Consensus-derived indications for delivery are: (i) term gestation, (ii) development of severe maternal HDP-associated complication(s) (Table

2) [92], (iii) stillbirth, or (iv) results of fetal monitoring that indicate delivery according to general obstetric practice [92], [363] and [368]. Currently, no tool exists to guide balancing risks, benefits, and the preferences of the woman and her family. The best treatment for the mother is always delivery, limiting her exposure to preeclampsia, so expectant management is best considered when potential perinatal benefits are substantial, usually at early gestational ages. Expectant management of preeclampsia refers to attempted pregnancy prolongation following a period of maternal and fetal observation and assessment, and maternal stabilization. Following this, 40% will be considered eligible for pregnancy prolongation [92]. Expectant management should occur only in an experienced unit where neonates can be cared for at the woman’s current gestational age (as delivery cannot be accurately anticipated). Expectant management at <240 weeks is associated with perinatal mortality >80% and maternal complications of 27–71% (including one maternal death) [368] and [369]. Termination of pregnancy should be discussed.