Many of you have hypertension or high blood pressure (BP) during pregnancy. Though you might give birth to healthy babies, high blood pressure during pregnancy might be dangerous to both – you and your child. The average blood pressure range for a healthy female is around 110/70 to 120/80. If your blood pressure is more than 140/90 on at least two days in a week, it indicates that you are suffering from high blood pressure.
There are 3 types of high blood pressure during pregnancy.
- Chronic Hypertension
If you have high BP before pregnancy, during pregnancy – before 20 weeks and more than 12 weeks after pregnancy.
2. Gestational hypertension
BP develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy; gestational hypertension goes away after delivery.
3. Pre-eclampsia
If suffering from high BP, your doctor will, make a diagnosis of pre-eclampsia after 20 weeks of your pregnancy. Pre-eclampsia is a serious medical condition effecting the placenta which supplies nutrients to your baby in the womb. Read on to know more about the effects of high blood pressure in pregnancy.
Effects of High BP during Pregnancy
1. High BP Decreases Blood Flow to Placenta
If your urine test shows traces of protein, chances are that you are developing early stages of pre-eclampsia. Having high blood pressure effects your baby’s growth as the amount of blood flow to the placenta is decreased. Placenta is the organ that supplies nutrients to your baby. This also may lead to preterm delivery of your baby.
2. Placenta Separation
Sometimes, because of high blood pressure, the placenta that is attached to the uterus might get separated, depriving the baby of oxygen and nutrients. This might cause heavy bleeding in the mother too.
3. Probability of an Early Delivery
Once you diagnosed with pre-eclampsia, the only way to cure is by delivering the baby. By doing so, you could minimize life-threatening complications for you and your child.
4. Development of Cardiovascular Complications in Future
If diagnosed with pre-eclampsia condition after 20 weeks of pregnancy, you might be at risk to develop cardiovascular diseases in future, even if your blood pressure comes back to normal after pregnancy.
Precautions to be taken for high blood pressure during Pregnancy
Before Pregnancy
If you are already suffering from hypertension, and want to have a baby, discuss with your doctor first. Take steps to keep your BP in control before and during your pregnancy phase. By doing so, you would ensure that you and your baby will be safe.
1. Keep your BP under control
Ensure that your BP is well under control. Reduce salt intake and have loads of physical exercise. Lose weight, if you are overweight.
2. Discuss with your doctor and know the problems that may arise because of high BP
Understand clearly of what could be probable risks associated with high BP during pregnancy for you and your baby. Follow the steps to minimize the probable risks suggested by your doctor.
3. Change medication as suggested by doctor
If you are taking medicines, check with your doctor, if you need to change your dosage or stop taking medicines now that you are trying to become pregnant. Always follow what your doctor prescribes.
During Pregnancy
If you have developed High blood pressure during your pregnancy:
1. Go for regular check-up
Go for regular prenatal check-up. Make sure that both your BP and urine are examined in each check-up. Do not hesitate to call your doctor, if you feel unwell in between. Do check with your doctor for any un-prescribed over the counter medications that you may want to take.
2. Avoid alcohol and tobacco
Remember that you have a little life inside you and you are solely responsible for your baby’s health. It is advisable that you do not consume alcohol and tobacco during your period of pregnancy.
3. Take care of your diet and lifestyle
If your BP is high during pregnancy do cut down on the intake of salt in food. Eat foods rich in vitamin C, D and antioxidants. Exercise regularly. Walk and practice yoga, if possible.
Even though high blood pressure during pregnancy can be serious, most of you with high BP and those who develop pre-eclampsia have successfully delivered healthy babies. Be proactive and learn of your condition. Analyze the effects and precautions that are to be followed and you too can sail through this phase. Remember to be regular for your prenatal checkup’s as that is most valuable thing that you could do for you and your baby.