In a powerful and deeply personal episode of her new podcast Confessions of a Female Founder, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, peeled back the curtain on one of the most frightening moments of her postpartum journey. With raw emotion, she revealed her battle with postpartum preeclampsia — a condition she described as “so rare” and “so scary.” The revelation has struck a chord with mothers worldwide, offering a voice to an issue that often remains hidden behind closed doors.
A Rare Yet Dangerous Condition
Postpartum preeclampsia is a serious and sometimes life-threatening complication that can arise after childbirth. Unlike the more widely known preeclampsia that occurs during pregnancy, the postpartum version tends to show up within 48 hours to six weeks after delivery. Its main hallmarks include high blood pressure and elevated protein levels in the urine, which can indicate kidney stress and other organ involvement.
Meghan spoke about the physical and emotional toll of this diagnosis, noting that while she was still expected to juggle daily responsibilities and public appearances, she was privately grappling with a major health scare. “You’re trying to show up for people, especially your children,” she shared, “but those moments are huge medical scares.”
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Symptoms and Why They Can’t Be Ignored
According to the Preeclampsia Foundation, postpartum preeclampsia symptoms can include:
- Severe headaches
- Vision disturbances (blurriness or light sensitivity)
- Pain in the upper abdomen (particularly under the ribs)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sudden swelling in the hands, feet, or face
- Shortness of breath
If untreated, it can progress to life-threatening conditions like seizures (eclampsia), stroke, blood clots, or even multi-organ failure. Meghan’s story is a stark reminder of why these symptoms should never be brushed aside, no matter how subtle or delayed they may seem.
Meghan’s Silent Struggle: A Common Reality for Many Mothers
Though she didn’t specify whether the diagnosis occurred after the birth of her son Archie or daughter Lilibet, Meghan’s courage in opening up has shed light on how easily the health concerns of postpartum mothers can go unacknowledged.
“There’s this immense pressure to bounce back,” Meghan said. “To be perfect. To smile for photos, attend meetings, and pretend you’re okay.” But in reality, she emphasised, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.”
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Many women—whether public figures or not—face societal expectations to return to their usual roles immediately after childbirth. The burden to prioritise everything and everyone over their own well-being often leads to delayed diagnoses, complications, and unspoken suffering.
Creating Space for Truthful Conversations
This emotional disclosure comes as Meghan kicks off her latest venture aimed at championing women’s voices. Her podcast, Confessions of a Female Founder, serves as a platform to explore not only the successes and struggles of being a woman in leadership but also the quieter, more personal battles that often go unheard—like the one she endured in silence.
Alongside her other recent projects, such as the With Love, Meghan Netflix series and her lifestyle brand As Ever, the Duchess is creating more than just content—she’s cultivating a culture of openness, vulnerability, and support for women across the globe.
Bottomline
Meghan’s revelation is a call to action for every new mother and the people around her. Know the signs. Take symptoms seriously. Most importantly, talk about the challenges. Whether you’re a royal or a regular mom, your health matters—and you deserve the care and compassion to heal completely.
By speaking up, Meghan Markle is not just sharing her story; she’s validating the experiences of countless other women who have suffered in silence. Her courage is opening the door for deeper, more empathetic conversations around maternal health—and that’s a legacy worth celebrating.