High blood pressure or hypertension can occur during pregnancy and is very dangerous for both mother and baby. This condition is also known as gestational hypertension and affects around 10% of pregnancies.

If left untreated, gestational hypertension can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the baby. Here are some of the serious health risks associated with hypertension in pregnancy.

Increased Risk of Pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia is a serious pregnancy-related condition that can develop when you have hypertension. This condition is characterized by high blood pressure, damage to organs, such as the kidneys and liver.

Pre-eclampsia can also cause low blood platelet count, fluid in the lungs, and visual disturbances. If pre-eclampsia is left untreated, it can be life-threatening for the mother and the baby.

Increased Risk of Gestational Diabetes

High blood pressure during pregnancy is also associated with an increased risk of developing gestational diabetes. Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that only develops during pregnancy.

It can lead to complications such as premature birth, high birth weight, and respiratory distress syndrome in the baby. There is also a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life for both the mother and the baby.

Intrauterine Growth Restriction

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a condition where the baby doesn’t grow at a normal rate during pregnancy. This condition is more common in women with hypertension.

It can lead to premature birth, low birth weight, and respiratory distress syndrome. IUGR can also affect the baby’s brain development, leading to learning difficulties and behavioral problems later in life.

Placental Abruption

Placental abruption is a serious complication of hypertension in pregnancy. This condition occurs when the placenta separates from the uterine wall before delivery.

The baby depends on the placenta for nutrients and oxygen, so this can be life-threatening for the baby. Placental abruption can cause heavy bleeding in the mother and requires urgent medical attention.

Increased Risk of Fetal Death

If left untreated, hypertension in pregnancy can also lead to fetal death. This can happen due to the complications mentioned above, such as placental abruption, pre-eclampsia, and IUGR.

It is important to monitor your blood pressure during pregnancy to reduce the risk of complications and ensure the health of your baby.

Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Women who have had hypertension during pregnancy are at increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease later in life. This can include conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

It is essential to monitor your blood pressure after pregnancy to reduce the risk of these complications.

Increased Risk of Kidney Disease

Hypertension during pregnancy can also lead to kidney disease. This is because high blood pressure can damage the kidneys, reducing their ability to function correctly. If left untreated, this can lead to chronic kidney disease and other complications.

Increased Risk of Postpartum Hemorrhage

Women with hypertension during pregnancy may also be at increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage. This is where there is heavy bleeding after delivery, and it requires immediate medical attention. It can lead to anemia, shock, and other complications.

Increased Risk of C-Section

Women with hypertension during pregnancy are more likely to have a C-section delivery. This is because hypertension may lead to complications during labor, such as fetal distress or placental abruption.

A C-section delivery is an operation where the baby is delivered through an incision in the mother’s abdomen and uterus.

Treatment Options for Hypertension in Pregnancy

If you have hypertension during pregnancy, your doctor will closely monitor your blood pressure and recommend appropriate treatment. Treatment options may include medication, lifestyle changes (such as exercise and diet), and regular prenatal care.

Regular prenatal care is essential to monitor your blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications.

It is essential to get treatment for hypertension during pregnancy to ensure the health of both mother and baby.

By monitoring your blood pressure and following your doctor’s recommendations, you can reduce the risk of complications and ensure a healthy delivery.