Today co-host Sarah Abo has been forced to begin maternity leave earlier than planned after suffering a pregnancy-related health scare that left her in and out of hospital and under strict medical supervision.

The popular Nine presenter revealed the unexpected development in an emotional message shared with viewers, explaining that what she described as a sudden “curveball” meant she would be unable to return to the Today studio before welcoming her first child.

Abo said she developed high blood pressure last week and has since required repeated hospital visits while doctors closely monitor both her condition and that of her unborn baby.

“Sorry I’ve been a bit MIA – copped a bit of a curveball,” she wrote.

“I’ve been in and out of hospital since. Thankfully I am in the safe hands of magnificent health professionals taking incredible good care of bub and me.”

She added that her medical team had instructed her to rest, leaving her no choice but to start maternity leave immediately rather than returning to the breakfast program for a final farewell.

“They have ordered me rest as they monitor me though, which means I won’t make it back to the Today show to say goodbye to you wonderful people before so abruptly heading on maternity leave. I’m sorry.”

The announcement prompted an outpouring of support from colleagues, friends and viewers.

Jasmine Stefanovic was among the first to publicly send her best wishes, writing, “Sending love to you and bubba beautiful Sarah.”

Sports presenter Danika Mason, who recently announced her own pregnancy, also encouraged Abo to focus on her recovery, while fellow Today personalities Jayne Azzopardi, Sylvia Jeffreys, Charles Croucher and several former colleagues shared messages of encouragement.

During Wednesday’s Today broadcast, Jeffreys updated viewers on Abo’s condition, explaining that although the baby had not yet arrived, doctors believed it was safest for the expectant mother to remain off work.

“She was hoping to come back and say goodbye to everyone before maternity leave, but doctor’s orders mean that’s just not possible right now,” Jeffreys told viewers.

The health scare carries particular emotional significance given Abo’s long and difficult path to motherhood.

Earlier this year, the journalist became visibly emotional while announcing her pregnancy live on air, revealing that she and her husband, Cyrus Moran, had conceived through IVF after enduring years of fertility challenges.

She also disclosed that the couple had previously experienced two miscarriages, making the current pregnancy especially precious.

“It hasn’t been the easiest journey to get here,” she said at the time, acknowledging that many Australian families face similar struggles while trying to have children.

Because of that history, doctors have reportedly monitored the pregnancy closely from an early stage.

High blood pressure during pregnancy can sometimes signal potentially serious complications, including pre-eclampsia, although Abo has not publicly stated that she has been diagnosed with that condition.

Instead, she has emphasised that both she and her baby are receiving excellent medical care and that doctors simply want to monitor the pregnancy carefully while ensuring she gets sufficient rest.

Medical experts note that elevated blood pressure in pregnancy does not automatically lead to severe complications, but it often requires close observation because it can affect both maternal and fetal health if it worsens.

Early intervention, regular monitoring and reduced physical stress are commonly recommended where appropriate.

Abo’s unexpected departure also creates another programming challenge for Nine’s flagship breakfast show.

The Today program has already experienced significant changes in recent weeks following the departure of longtime co-host Karl Stefanovic, resulting in a rotating lineup of presenters while the network evaluates longer-term hosting arrangements.

With Abo now absent until after the birth of her baby, viewers are expected to continue seeing a number of familiar Nine personalities filling in alongside the remaining hosts.

Although speculation has emerged about who may permanently occupy the chair during her absence, the network has not announced a long-term replacement.

Despite the sudden end to her on-air appearances before maternity leave, Abo used her message to thank viewers for their continued kindness throughout her pregnancy.

She said she had been overwhelmed by the support she had received and encouraged everyone to prioritise their own health.

“Thank you for your beautiful messages of love and support,” she wrote.

“A reminder to make sure you look after yourself – pregnant or not.”

For many viewers, that message reflected the same openness that has characterised Abo’s journey over recent months.

Rather than hiding the difficulties she has faced, she has spoken candidly about infertility, miscarriage, IVF and now the unexpected complications that have brought an early end to her working year.

As she prepares to welcome her first child, colleagues across Australia’s television industry continue expressing confidence that her health—and that of her baby—remains the only priority.

With doctors continuing to monitor her condition, Abo’s immediate focus is now on rest, recovery and the safe arrival of what she has affectionately called “little CJ”.