Gestational Hypertension: What You Need to Know
If you are pregnant, you may have heard of gestational hypertension, a condition that affects about 6% to 8% of pregnant women. Gestational hypertension is high blood pressure that begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy and goes away after childbirth. It can have serious consequences for both you and your baby if left untreated. Here are some facts you need to know about gestational hypertension and how to manage it.
What Causes Gestational Hypertension?
The exact cause of gestational hypertension is not known, but some factors that may increase your risk include:
- Being pregnant for the first time
- Being older than 35 years
- Having a family history of high blood pressure or preeclampsia
- Having multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.)
- Having a pre-existing medical condition such as diabetes, kidney disease, or autoimmune disease
- Being overweight or obese
- Having a history of smoking, alcohol use, or drug abuse
How Does Gestational Hypertension Affect You and Your Baby?
Gestational hypertension can affect your body in different ways than normal high blood pressure. It can put extra stress on your heart and kidneys, and interfere with the blood flow to the placenta, which provides oxygen and nutrients to your baby. This can lead to complications such as:
- Placental abruption: The placenta separates from the uterus before delivery, causing bleeding and possible foetal distress.
- Intrauterine growth restriction: The baby grows slower than normal due to lack of nutrients and oxygen.
- Preterm birth: The baby is born before 37 weeks of gestation, which can increase the risk of breathing problems, infections, and other health issues.
- Preeclampsia: A more severe form of high blood pressure during pregnancy that involves signs of organ damage such as protein in the urine, swelling, headaches, vision changes, and seizures. Preeclampsia can be life-threatening for both mother and baby if not treated promptly.
How is Gestational Hypertension Diagnosed and Treated?
Gestational hypertension is diagnosed by measuring your blood pressure at regular antenatal visits. A blood pressure reading of 140/90 mm Hg or higher on two occasions at least four hours apart after 20 weeks of pregnancy indicates gestational hypertension. You may also need blood tests and urine tests to check for signs of organ damage or preeclampsia.
The treatment for gestational hypertension depends on how severe it is, how far along you are in your pregnancy, and how your baby is doing. Some possible treatments include:
- Lifestyle changes: You may be advised to rest more, avoid stress, limit salt intake, drink plenty of fluids, and exercise moderately with your provider's approval.
- Medications: You may be prescribed medications to lower your blood pressure and prevent complications. Some common medications include methyldopa, labetalol, nifedipine, and hydralazine. Do not take any over-the-counter or herbal remedies without consulting your provider first.
- Monitoring: You and your baby will need more frequent check-ups to monitor your blood pressure, urine protein, foetal growth, foetal heart rate, and amniotic fluid levels. You may also need ultrasounds or non-stress tests to assess your baby's well-being.
- Delivery: If your condition worsens or if you develop preeclampsia or other complications, you may need to deliver your baby early by induction or caesarean section. Your provider will weigh the risks and benefits of early delivery versus continuing the pregnancy.
How Can You Prevent Gestational Hypertension?
There is no sure way to prevent gestational hypertension, but you can reduce your risk by taking good care of yourself before and during pregnancy. Some tips include:
- Getting regular prenatal care
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and low-fat dairy
- Taking prenatal vitamins as prescribed by your provider
- Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs
- Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes or kidney disease
- Keeping a healthy weight gain during pregnancy
- Asking for help and support from your partner, family, friends, or health care team
Gestational hypertension is a serious condition that requires close attention and care. By following your provider's advice and taking care of yourself and your baby, you can have a healthy pregnancy and delivery.
Do you require more enlightenment on gestational hypertension or any other medical condition? Talk to us now! We’re a team of women-only medical professionals strictly focused on women’s healthcare.
Sources
[1] Debbo Africa: https://debbo.africa.
[2] Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Gestational Hypertension: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment. Retrieved from https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/4497-gestational-hypertension
[3] Mayo Clinic. (2019). High blood pressure and pregnancy: Know the facts. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/in-depth/pregnancy/art-20046098
[4] MedlinePlus. (2021). High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy. Retrieved from https://medlineplus.gov/highbloodpressureinpregnancy.html