High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition in which blood consistently pushes against the artery walls with excessive pressure.

High blood pressure in pregnancy affects the body differently than high blood pressure at other times. If untreated, it can lead to complications for both the mother and the foetus.

Understanding the link between high blood pressure and pregnancy is essential to ensure a safe and healthy delivery.

What is High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy? 

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition in which the force with which the blood pushes against the walls of the artery is consistently too high. Ideally, blood pressure should remain below 120/80 mm Hg.

But during the latter half of the pregnancy—typically after 20 weeks—blood pressure greater than or equal to 140/90mm Hg is risky. This is called gestational hypertension, and when untreated, it can put both the mother and the foetus at risk of health complications.

In some cases, gestational hypertension may develop into preeclampsia.

What are the Types of High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy?

The most common types of high blood pressure during pregnancy are:

1. Chronic Hypertension: High blood pressure before pregnancy or during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy is called chronic hypertension. It usually does not cause any symptoms.
2. Gestational Hypertension: Gestational hypertension is high blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy. It usually does not cause health complications such as organ damage. In some cases, however, it may develop into preeclampsia.
3. Preeclampsia: Preeclampsia develops as high blood pressure during the second half of pregnancy. It can lead to severe, even fatal, complications for the mother and foetus, including damage to the kidney, liver, and brain.

What are the Risk Factors for Developing High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy? 

The exact causes of gestational hypertension in pregnancy are unknown. However, the risk of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy is higher for individuals who:

1. Are under age 20 or over age 40
2. Have diabetes or gestational diabetes
3. Have a family history of gestational hypertension
4. Have an immune system disorder or a kidney disease
5. Are expecting multiple babies, such as twins or triplets
6. Have experienced gestational hypertension or preeclampsia in the past

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What are the Symptoms of High Blood Pressure during Pregnancy?

Most individuals fail to notice when their blood pressure is high. Thus, it is important to schedule regular prenatal appointments and checkups with a doctor to avoid complications.

Some gestational hypertension symptoms that an individual may notice are:

1. Headaches
2. Nausea
3. Abdominal pain
4. Sudden weight gain
5. Swelling

What are the Health Risks of High Blood Pressure during Pregnancy? 

High blood pressure in pregnancy can lead to complications for the mother and baby if left untreated.

The following are some risks of high blood pressure during pregnancy:

1. Hypertension during pregnancy can result in health complications for the mother, including seizures and strokes.
2. Untreated hypertension can damage organs, including the brain, liver, kidneys, lungs, etc. In extreme cases, it may cause death.
3. Less blood flow to the placenta can lead to the foetus not receiving adequate nutrients and oxygen. It can lead to slow growth, premature birth, and health complications for the baby.
4. Hypertension may cause the placenta to separate from the inner wall of the uterus before delivery. It can lead to excessive bleeding, which can be life-threatening to both the mother and the foetus.

How is Gestational Hypertension Diagnosed? 

Gestational hypertension is suspected when the healthcare provider notices continued high blood pressure readings that differ from regular blood pressure fluctuations.

The provider may perform additional tests, including:

1. Testing the urine for protein
2. Checking for swelling
3. Performing blood tests to check liver and kidney function and blood clotting factor

What is a Healthy Diet for Gestational Hypertension?

Healthcare providers recommend the following diet for gestational hypertension:

1. Fruits and vegetables
2. Low-fat dairy products
3. Legumes and nuts
4. Whole grains

Fish, poultry, meat, sugar, and sodium should also be limited.

In The End 

High blood pressure during pregnancy can cause health complications for both the mother and foetus if left untreated. In case of symptoms, visit a healthcare professional and book a test at Dr. Lal Path Labs.

FAQs

1. How does high blood pressure during pregnancy differ from high blood pressure at other times?

During pregnancy, the heart needs to pump much more blood which puts the body under more stress than usual. Hypertension affects the placenta and the health of the mother and the baby.

2. Is it safe to take blood pressure medication during pregnancy?

Some blood pressure medications, such as renin inhibitors, should be avoided during pregnancy. Always consult a doctor before taking blood pressure medication during pregnancy.