Hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, is a common condition that affects millions of people around the world. However, when hypertension occurs in pregnant women, it can pose serious risks to both the mother and the unborn baby.

In this article, we will discuss the dangers of hypertension in pregnancy and how it can be managed.

What is Hypertension?

Hypertension is a condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is consistently elevated. Blood pressure is measured in two numbers, systolic (the top number) and diastolic (the bottom number).

A normal blood pressure reading is 120/80 mmHg or below. A reading of 140/90 mmHg or above is considered hypertension.

Hypertension can lead to a variety of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and vision loss.

It is often called the “silent killer” because it doesn’t usually cause symptoms until it has caused significant damage to the body.

Hypertension in Pregnancy

Hypertension can occur in pregnant women for a variety of reasons. Some women develop hypertension before they become pregnant, while others may develop it during pregnancy. There are several types of hypertension that can occur during pregnancy:.

Gestational Hypertension

Gestational hypertension is a type of hypertension that occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Women who develop gestational hypertension usually don’t have any symptoms and their blood pressure returns to normal after delivery.

However, women with gestational hypertension are at an increased risk of developing preeclampsia.

Chronic Hypertension

Chronic hypertension is a type of hypertension that is already present before pregnancy or that develops before the 20th week of pregnancy.

Women with chronic hypertension have a higher risk of developing preeclampsia and other complications during pregnancy.

Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a serious complication of pregnancy that is characterized by high blood pressure and damage to one or more organs, most commonly the liver and kidneys.

Preeclampsia can lead to serious health problems for both the mother and the baby, including preterm delivery, low birth weight, and the need for intensive care.

Eclampsia

Eclampsia is a rare but serious complication of preeclampsia that is characterized by seizures in the mother. Eclampsia can lead to serious health problems for the mother and the baby and requires urgent medical attention.

Risks of Hypertension in Pregnancy

Hypertension in pregnancy can pose serious risks to both the mother and the unborn baby. These risks include:.

Complications for the Mother

Women with hypertension in pregnancy are at an increased risk of developing preeclampsia, eclampsia, placental abruption (separation of the placenta from the uterus), preterm delivery, and cesarean delivery.

They are also at a higher risk of developing heart disease and stroke later in life.

Complications for the Baby

Babies born to mothers with hypertension in pregnancy are at an increased risk of being born prematurely, having a low birth weight, and experiencing breathing problems.

They are also at a higher risk of developing long-term health problems such as heart disease and hypertension later in life.

Managing Hypertension in Pregnancy

It is important for pregnant women with hypertension to receive regular prenatal care and monitoring.

Treatment for hypertension in pregnancy may include lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly, as well as medication to lower blood pressure.

Women with gestational hypertension usually don’t require treatment, but they will need to be monitored closely for signs of preeclampsia. Women with chronic hypertension may require medication to control their blood pressure during pregnancy.

Women with preeclampsia or eclampsia often require hospitalization and may need to deliver their baby early.

Conclusion

Hypertension in pregnancy is a serious condition that can pose risks to both the mother and the unborn baby.

Women with hypertension in pregnancy should receive regular prenatal care and monitoring to ensure the best possible outcomes for themselves and their baby. With proper management, most women with hypertension in pregnancy are able to have a safe and healthy pregnancy.