DALLAS - March 3, 2026 (NEWMEDIAWIRE) - Viewers of Hulu’s Emmy-, Golden Globe- and Actor-award nominated show “Paradise” were shocked and saddened by the death of Shailene Woodley’s character, Annie, on Monday night. Woodley’s character, a former medical student pregnant with her first child, suffered from preeclampsia, new-onset high blood pressure that happens during pregnancy.

Throughout her pregnancy, viewers watched as Annie regularly took her blood pressure. Her daily blood pressure readings were high, suggesting she may have preeclampsia. In last night’s episode, Annie and Xaiver, played by Sterling K. Brown, travel to Atlanta to find Xaiver’s wife when Annie goes into labor. Although the baby is successfully delivered, Annie dies shortly after giving birth.

According to the CDC, preeclampsia is estimated to occur in 5 to 7% of all pregnancies.[1] While most women with preeclampsia deliver healthy babies and fully recover, preeclampsia can be life-threatening to the mother and baby.

What is preeclampsia?

According to the American Heart Association, preeclampsia is new-onset high blood pressure that happens during pregnancy. It usually starts after the 20th week of pregnancy. Preeclampsia is defined as a systolic pressure of 140 mm Hg or higher and/or a diastolic pressure of 90 mm Hg or higher on two recordings at least four hours apart. Other signs of preeclampsia include high levels of protein in the urine or other signs of organ damage.

What are the signs or symptoms of preeclampsia?

Some women don’t notice any symptoms. When they do happen, symptoms may include:

• Headaches with unknown cause that don’t go away with medication
• Vision changes
• Upper abdominal pain
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid swelling (edema), especially of the feet

Reducing preeclampsia risk

Currently, there is no test being used regularly in the U.S. to predict preeclampsia. The mother and baby are monitored at their regular prenatal visits.

There is no proven way to prevent gestational hypertension or preeclampsia. But, women at risk of developing preeclampsia can lower their risk by taking low-dose aspirin during pregnancy. Women should ask their health care professional if aspirin is appropriate.

For a healthy pregnancy, women should:

• Get early and regular medical care.
• Check their blood pressure at home if told to.
• Eat a heart-healthy diet.
• Get regular physical activity.

Women with preeclampsia are more likely to develop high blood pressure, neurologic problems and diabetes later in life. It also increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, research shows.

How is preeclampsia treated?

Preeclampsia treatment depends on a few factors. These include the overall health of the mother and the condition’s progress.

Medications including beta-blockers (such as labetalol) or calcium channel blockers (nifedipine) are often used to lower blood pressure.

To prevent the risk of severe health issues for the mother, the baby may need to be born early. If the mother has severe symptoms and is at least 34 weeks pregnant, experts recommend delivering the baby as soon as it is safe. If the pregnancy is less than 34 weeks, medication might be given to help the baby grow and be better prepared for an early delivery. If the mother’s condition is not severe, delivery at 37 weeks is recommended. Preeclampsia signs and symptoms may continue after delivery but usually disappear within six weeks.

Find resources to support women’s heart health at every age, through every stage of life at GoRedforWomen.org.

About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public’s health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

About Go Red for Women®

The American Heart Association’s signature initiative, Go Red for Women®, is a comprehensive platform designed to increase women’s heart health awareness and serve as a catalyst for change to improve the lives of women globally. While the majority of cardiac events can be prevented, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming the lives of 1 in 3 women. For more than two decades, Go Red for Women has encouraged awareness. The movement harnesses the energy, passion and power of women to band together and collectively wipe out heart disease. It challenges them to know their risk for heart disease and take action to reduce their personal risk. It also gives them tools they need to lead a heart healthy life. The Go Red for Women movement is nationally sponsored by CVS Health, with additional support from national cause supporters. For more information, please visit GoRedforWomen.org or call 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721).

For Media Inquiries 214-706-1173:

Julia Kersey: julia.kersey@heart.org

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org

[1] https://blogs.cdc.gov/genomics/2022/10/25/preeclampsia/

View the original release on www.newmediawire.com

This contant was orignally distributed by NewMediaWire. Blockchain Registration, Verification & Enhancement provided by NewsRamp™. The source URL for this press release is SPOILER ALERT: What is Preeclampsia? Condition Killed Shailene Woodley s Character on Paradise.