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Some women have high blood pressure, also called hypertension, before pregnancy, and some during pregnancy. Studies have shown that older women (in childbearing age), women with high body mass index, and African American women are highly likely to have prehypertension and hypertension. Chronic hypertension can be diagnosed before or during pregnancy. You may be looking at a positive pregnancy test and high blood pressure isn’t even a concern for you right now. But read on for information that may be critical as your pregnancy progresses.
There are several types of hypertension in women of childbearing age.
Before becoming pregnant, they may have been diagnosed with hypertension by their doctor. High blood pressure (hypertension) is diagnosed if the blood pressure reading is equal to or greater than 130/80 mm-Hg. A diagnosis of hypertension is usually based on the average of two or more readings taken on separate occasions.
During pregnancy, a woman may develop high blood pressure, which is called gestational hypertension. This usually develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy, with blood pressure greater than 140/90 mm-Hg. Some symptoms of gestational hypertension may include:
It is important to follow up with an OB/GYN to monitor your blood pressure and swelling and to test your urine for protein. If you develop gestational hypertension, your doctor may prescribe safe doses of medication to control blood pressure. It is important to speak with your doctor before taking any medication.
Gestational hypertension may turn into preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is when blood pressure is elevated and excess protein is in the urine (proteinuria). Symptoms of preeclampsia include:
Some swelling during pregnancy could be normal. Sudden weight gain may be a sign of preeclampsia.
It is very important to be checked for hypertension if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It is important to know if you are at risk for preeclampsia. Seeking medical attention and following up with your doctor as advised is a vital part of your medical care.
High blood pressure during a pregnancy may lead to complications if not monitored and treated. A doctor can monitor you and your pregnancy and help manage your hypertension during pregnancy.
It’s rare, but preeclampsia can occur postpartum, developing within 48 hours after childbirth. It could even develop up to six weeks (or later) after childbirth (called “late postpartum preeclampsia”).
Postpartum preeclampsia requires prompt treatment from your medical provider; if left untreated it can cause serious complications, including seizures or even death.
After pregnancy, it is just as important to continue follow-up with your provider for your safety, as high blood pressure can be dangerous to your health whether or not you are pregnant.
If you’re pregnant and undecided regarding your pregnancy options, please call reach out to us here at Alcove Health. You can call us or click the button below to request your free appointment. We provide free services including options consultations, pregnancy tests, and confirmation ultrasounds. Reach out today for your free and confidential medical appointment.
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