Pregnancy is a special time, but it also brings changes to your body, some expected and some that need extra care.
One of the more serious concerns is high blood pressure. It doesn’t always show clear symptoms, but it can have a big impact on both the mother and baby. Knowing what to look for and when to seek help is important.
Here’s how high blood pressure can affect pregnancy and how to manage it the right way.
Types of High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy
Not all high blood pressure during pregnancy is the same. Here are the main types:
- Chronic Hypertension: This means the high blood pressure started before pregnancy or in the first 20 weeks.
- Gestational Hypertension: This develops after 20 weeks and usually goes away after delivery.
- Preeclampsia: A serious condition where high blood pressure is combined with signs of organ stress, like protein in the urine.
Each type needs a different approach, but all require close monitoring.
Potential Risks to the Mother
High blood pressure can lead to complications like
- Organ damage, especially to the kidneys or liver
- Placental abruption, where the placenta separates from the uterus too early
- Increased risk of stroke or seizures (especially with preeclampsia)
- C-section delivery, due to the added risks during labor
Potential Risks to the Baby
The baby’s health is closely tied to the mother’s. High blood pressure can
- Reduce blood flow to the placenta, limiting oxygen and nutrients
- Cause low birth weight
- Lead to premature birth
- Raise the risk of stillbirth in severe cases
These risks highlight the importance of regular check-ups and early detection.
What You Can Do
The good news is that high blood pressure during pregnancy can be managed with the right care. Here’s what helps
- Regular Monitoring: Keep track of your blood pressure throughout your pregnancy
- Healthy Eating: Focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and low-salt meals
- Stay Active: Light exercises like walking or prenatal yoga can support healthy blood pressure
- Take Prescribed Medications: Never skip your medicine if prescribed by your doctor
- Attend All Prenatal Visits: Regular check-ups help detect any changes early
When to Seek Help
Call your doctor right away if you experience
- Severe headaches
- Blurred vision
- Sudden swelling in your face or hands
- Sharp pain in your upper abdomen
These can be signs of preeclampsia and need immediate attention.
Conclusion
Managing high blood pressure during pregnancy takes experience and attention. Dr. Smita Jadhav provides top-notch pregnancy care in Salt Lake, Kolkata with compassion. From early monitoring to safe delivery, she’s here to keep you and your baby healthy with expert care to guide you through every stage of your pregnancy.
Schedule your consultation with Dr. Jadhav today and take a confident step towards a safe and healthy pregnancy.
