High blood pressure (hypertension) during pregnancy
High blood pressure during pregnancy is a serious condition. Having high blood pressure, or hypertension, is considered a factor for a high-risk pregnancy. It can affect both the parent and the baby. It's helpful to know the risks, signs and ways to treat it.1
What are the types of hypertension in pregnancy?
High blood pressure during pregnancy is when blood pressure is greater than or equal to 140/90. There are 3 main types of high blood pressure that can happen during pregnancy:1, 2, 3, 4
- Chronic hypertension: High blood pressure that starts before pregnancy or before you’re 20 weeks pregnant. It continues after the baby is born. People with chronic hypertension can develop preeclampsia. This is called chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia.
- Gestational hypertension: High blood pressure that starts after you’re 20 weeks pregnant. Some people with gestational hypertension get preeclampsia.
- Preeclampsia: A high blood pressure disorder that can affect any of the body’s organs, such as the liver, kidneys, lungs, brain and placenta. It typically begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy, in the third trimester.
Signs and symptoms of hypertension in pregnancy
High blood pressure doesn't usually have symptoms. That’s why regular prenatal check-ups are important. Your obstetrician or gynecologist (OB/GYN) should check your blood pressure at every check-up. Managing high blood pressure during pregnancy may help you avoid preeclampsia. Symptoms of preeclampsia can include:4
- Swelling in the hands and face
- Sudden weight gain
- High blood pressure
- Severe headaches
- Changes in vision
- Difficulty breathing
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pain in your upper abdomen or shoulder
Risk factors for hypertension in pregnancy
The cause of high blood pressure during pregnancy isn't known. Anyone can get high blood pressure. There are some things that can make it more likely:2,4
- Being over age 35
- First pregnancy
- History of gestational hypertension or preeclampsia in previous pregnancies
- Increased body weight or obesity
- Family history of preeclampsia
- More than 10 years between pregnancies
- Multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets, etc.)
- Pre-existing medical conditions (diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease or autoimmune disorder)
- A history of blood clots
- Being Black or Hispanic (because of racism and inequities that increase risk of illness)
- Using in vitro fertilization
Complications from hypertension during pregnancy
Not all people with high blood pressure during pregnancy have complications. However, having high blood pressure increases the risks for:1,3
- Blood clotting problems
- Liver problems
- Needing a C-section delivery
- Seizures
- Stroke
- Temporary kidney failure
- Future cardiovascular disease
High blood pressure can also cause complications for the baby. High blood pressure may lessen blood flow to the placenta. This can keep the fetus from getting nutrients and oxygen. Complications may include low birth weight and premature birth.1,2
Treatment for high blood pressure during pregnancy
The treatment for high blood pressure during pregnancy will depend on a few factors. These include the severity of the condition and the stage of pregnancy. Strategies may include:1,3
- Checking blood pressure: Getting regular check-ups and checking blood pressure at home
- Medications: Using medications to manage blood pressure
- Hospitalization: In some cases, you may need to stay in the hospital
- Lifestyle changes: Eat a healthy diet and stay active as directed by your doctor
- Bed rest: Recommended as treatment for some
The goal is to prevent complications and ensure the best outcome for you and the baby.
Preventing high blood pressure during pregnancy
The exact cause of high blood pressure during pregnancy isn’t known. Making the following healthy choices can lower the risk:1
Talk to your doctor about ways to help manage high blood pressure during pregnancy. Getting regular prenatal care is important to help you have a healthier pregnancy.
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