High-blood pressure in pregnancy
High blood pressure (also known as hypertension) is a common problem but whether you already have it prior to becoming pregnant or develop it during your pregnancy, it needs to be handled with special care to avoid complications.
Chronic high blood pressure
If you have chronic high blood pressure and are planning to have a baby it is important to talk to your physician before you conceive. You can have a perfectly healthy pregnancy, but because of the slightly greater risk of complications you’ll need to be closely monitored to make sure both you and your baby remain fit and well. If you’re on medication to control your blood pressure your doctor may lower your dose or switch you to a different drug regime before you become pregnant because some treatments can affect the development of your baby.
Throughout your pregnancy you’ll need to have your blood pressure checked regularly. Some women find it useful to buy a monitor to use at home so they can check their blood pressure themselves in between appointments – if you would like to do this discuss the details with your caregiver first.
Pregnancy induced hypertension
Sometimes women who don’t have high blood pressure before they conceive can develop it during their pregnancy. You’re more at risk of this if you’re a first-time mom-to-be, if you’re carrying more than one baby, and if you’re over 40.
If you develop high blood pressure it’ll be identified by your OB-GYN or nurse-midwife when they measure your blood pressure at your regular prenatal check. If your blood pressure rises only slightly and your urine doesn’t contain any protein, you’ll be monitored; if it’s a large rise and your urine tests positive for protein you may have pre-eclampsia, a condition that needs to be treated immediately to avoid further problems. It is likely you will be admitted to hospital for tests to assess your condition.
Can high blood pressure during pregnancy be treated?
There are a number of different ways to treat high blood pressure during pregnancy and your caregiver will advise you on what treatment is best for you. Treatments could include bed rest, reducing your intake of salt and saturated fats, drinking plenty of water and taking pregnancy-safe medication to lower your blood pressure.
If you’re diagnosed with high blood pressure your doctor and midwife will closely monitor you throughout your pregnancy to make sure everything is OK. If there are any increases they will prescribe suitable treatment.
Can I avoid getting high blood pressure?
Although there is no guaranteed way of preventing high blood pressure during and immediately after pregnancy there are steps that you can take to reduce your risk of developing it.
- Stop smoking and drinking.
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet low in saturated fats and salt and high in fruit and vegetables.
- Avoid stressful situations and take regular time to relax.
- Take gentle exercise throughout your pregnancy.
For further information on how to have a healthy pregnancy, check out gurgle’s top 10 tips for a healthy pregnancy.
The American Heart Association (www.americanheart.org) has further advice on hypertension.
The information in this feature is intended for educational purposes only. If you have any concerns about your health, the health of your child or the health of someone you know, please consult with a doctor or other healthcare professional.