During pregnancy, high blood pressure (hypertension) can affect the body in different ways than it normally would. Both mother and baby may be at increased risk for complications. Show
OverviewWhat is high blood pressure (hypertension)?Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against blood vessel walls. The heart pumps blood into the arteries (blood vessels) that carry the blood throughout the body. High blood pressure, also called hypertension, means that the pressure in the arteries is above the normal range. How is high blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy different from high blood pressure at other times?High blood pressure during pregnancy can impact the body in different ways than it normally would. Mothers with high blood pressure during pregnancy are at a higher risk of complications before, during and after the birth. Not only is the mother’s health in danger, but the baby can be impacted by high blood pressure during pregnancy. High blood pressure during pregnancy can affect the development of the placenta, causing the nutrient and oxygen supply to the baby to be limited. This can lead to an early delivery, low birth weight, placental separation (abruption) and other complications for the baby. What are the different forms of high blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy?High blood pressure (hypertension) complicates about 10 percent of all pregnancies. There are several different types of high blood pressure during pregnancy. These types vary in severity and impact on the body. The forms of high blood pressure during pregnancy include:
Who is at higher risk of developing high blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy?A woman is more likely to develop high blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy if she:
Symptoms and CausesWhat is the danger of high blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy?High blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy can prevent the placenta (the food supply for the baby in the womb) from receiving enough blood. The lowered amount of blood to the placenta can lead to a low birth weight. Other complications can occur from high blood pressure during pregnancy. These conditions do not happen to all women with high blood pressure. They can include:
Management and TreatmentHow is high blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy treated?High blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy can be treated in a variety of ways depending on the severity, cause and time of onset. Mothers with all forms of hypertension will need to be monitored closely. This could include more prenatal visits, ultrasounds, and other tests to ensure the baby’s well-being (monitoring of fetal heart rate or activity). What steps can I take to have a safe delivery with high blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy?Steps that patients with high blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy can take to help the chances of having a safe and healthy delivery include:
PreventionCan high blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy be prevented?Since the cause of high blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy is not known, it is not a condition that can usually be prevented. In some women at high risk for developing high blood pressure, healthcare providers often recommend daily baby aspirin for prevention. High blood pressure during pregnancy can sometimes be managed and controlled with the help of a healthcare provider. However, this may often require delivery of the baby. Your blood pressure will be checked regularly during prenatal appointments. If you have any concerns about your blood pressure, speak with your healthcare provider. Outlook / PrognosisWill I still have high blood pressure (hypertension) after the baby is delivered?High blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy typically goes away after the baby is delivered but increases the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease in the future. Women who had chronic hypertension before pregnancy will usually still have the condition after delivery. Sometimes, blood pressure can remain high after delivery, requiring treatment with medication. Your healthcare provider will work with you after your pregnancy to manage your blood pressure. Get useful, helpful and relevant health + wellness information
enews What happens if blood pressure is too high in pregnancy?If blood pressure goes up during pregnancy, it can place extra stress on your heart and kidneys. This can lead to heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke. High blood pressure during pregnancy also increases the risk of preeclampsia, preterm birth, placental abruption, and cesarean birth.
How can I lower my blood pressure during pregnancy?For example:. Keep your prenatal appointments. Visit your health care provider on a regular basis throughout your pregnancy.. Take your blood pressure medication and low-dose daily aspirin as prescribed. ... . Stay active. ... . Eat a healthy diet. ... . Know what's off-limits.. |