High blood pressure during pregnancy, also known as gestational hypertension, affects around 6-8% of pregnant women.

It occurs when blood pressure levels rise above the normal range (120/80mmHg) in the second half of pregnancy, usually after 20 weeks gestation. If left unmanaged, high blood pressure can lead to serious complications for both the mother and baby.

Risks of High Blood Pressure during Pregnancy

High blood pressure can increase the risk of several complications during pregnancy, including:.

Preeclampsia: a condition that can cause damage to organs, including the kidneys, liver, and brain, and can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Preterm delivery: delivery of the baby before 37 weeks gestation.
Low birth weight: babies born weighing less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces (2,500 grams).
Placental abruption: separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery, which can cause heavy bleeding and can be life-threatening for both the mother and baby.

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure during Pregnancy

Women with high blood pressure during pregnancy may not experience any symptoms. However, some may experience:.

Headaches
Blurred vision
Dizziness
Shortness of breath
Bloating or swelling in the face, hands, or feet

If you experience any of these symptoms during pregnancy, contact your healthcare provider immediately.

Managing High Blood Pressure during Pregnancy

The goal of managing high blood pressure during pregnancy is to prevent complications for both the mother and baby. This may involve lifestyle changes and/or medication.

Lifestyle Changes

Your healthcare provider may recommend the following lifestyle changes to help manage high blood pressure during pregnancy:.

Healthy diet: Eat a well-balanced diet that is low in sodium and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Exercise: Engage in moderate exercise, as recommended by your healthcare provider.
Quit smoking: Smoking can increase blood pressure and harm your baby’s health.
Reduce stress: Find ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

Medications

If lifestyle changes alone are not enough to manage your high blood pressure, your healthcare provider may prescribe medication.

Some medications used to treat high blood pressure are not safe to take during pregnancy, so it is important to discuss any medication with your healthcare provider.

Monitoring High Blood Pressure during Pregnancy

Women with high blood pressure during pregnancy will require more frequent prenatal visits to monitor their blood pressure and assess for any complications.

Your healthcare provider may recommend:.

Monitoring blood pressure at home
Regular ultrasound exams to monitor the growth and well-being of the baby
Lab tests to monitor kidney function, liver function, and blood clotting

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:.

Severe headache that does not improve with medication
Blurred vision or vision changes
Severe abdominal pain
Bleeding or sudden gush of fluid from the vagina
Decreased fetal movement

Conclusion

High blood pressure during pregnancy is a serious condition that can lead to complications for both the mother and baby. However, with proper management, many women with high blood pressure during pregnancy deliver healthy babies.

Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any concerns about high blood pressure during pregnancy.