Overview
High blood pressure (hypertension) means that the force of blood against your artery walls is too strong.
High blood pressure problems during pregnancy include:
- Chronic hypertension. This is high blood pressure that starts before pregnancy.
- Gestational hypertension. This is high blood pressure that starts in the second or third trimester of pregnancy.
- Preeclampsia. This is a problem that includes high blood pressure and signs of organ injury during pregnancy. In some cases, it leads to eclampsia. Eclampsia causes seizures.
If your blood pressure becomes too high during pregnancy (140/90 mm Hg or higher) you may have a higher chance of complications.
High blood pressure during pregnancy can affect the amount of oxygen and nutrients your baby receives. This can affect how your baby grows. High blood pressure can also cause other serious problems for both you and your baby. For example, the placenta might separate too early from the wall of the uterus (placental abruption). This can cause serious bleeding or premature birth.
To prevent problems, you and your baby will be watched very closely. You will have to check your blood pressure often during and after the pregnancy and at home after your baby is born.
If your blood pressure rises suddenly or is very high during pregnancy, your healthcare provider or midwife may prescribe medicines. They can usually control blood pressure. Your healthcare provider will also watch your baby more closely. This may include more ultrasounds to monitor your baby’s growth and health.
If your blood pressure affects your health or your baby's health, you may need to be monitored in the hospital. You may get medicines. Or your healthcare provider or midwife may need to deliver your baby early.
After your baby is born, your blood pressure will may improve. But sometimes blood pressure problems continue after birth. If you had high blood pressure during pregnancy, you have more risk of having high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and diabetes later in life. Work with your doctor or midwife to make heart-healthy lifestyle choices. These include eating healthy foods, being active, staying at a healthy weight, and not smoking. Get the checkups you need. Your doctor or midwife may also want you to check your blood pressure at home.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your healthcare provider or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
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