What is Hypertension?

Hypertension is caused due to the rise in the Blood Pressure. It is one of the most frequently seen complication encountered during pregnancy. Extreme hypertension may lead to miscarriage of the fetus.

Hypertension is also one of the major reasons behind the sickness and death of pregnant mothers and unborn fetuses.

There are three types of hypertension – chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia.

Management of Hypertension Before Pregnancy

There are many pregnancies which are not pre-planned. It becomes difficult for the doctors to counsel in such cases. In case it is pre-planned, diagnosis can be made much earlier.

It becomes easier for the doctor to counsel the patient. The subsequent causes of hypertension can be avoided. Majority of the women have controlled their chronic hypertension under the careful guidance and appropriate management of their doctors.

Management of Hypertension During Pregnancy

If the hypertension is not controlled in the first trimester, it is fatal for the expectant mother and the foetus.

A blood pressure assessment test should be conducted along with a search for proteinuria.

Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and Angiotensin Receptor Blockers (ARBs) are harmful to the foetus in the first trimester.

There should be an increase in the intake of the Vitamin C and Vitamin E in the second trimester.

The antihypertension agents have proved to be safe for women. They can be consumed even when the woman is conceiving.

A mean arterial pressure of 125mmHg is needed to be maintained for the stability of the woman’s condition.

The treatment varies from woman to woman.

There are certain changes in food and sleeping habits that is advised by the doctor which helps in controlling the hypertension.

Certain drugs are also administered depending on the situation. These drugs include Methyldopa, Nifedipine, Oral Hydralazine and Thiazide Diuretis.

Hypertension After Pregnancy

Postpartum hypertension is extremely common. There is often a rise in blood pressure after the delivery of the child. Post pregnancy hypertension lasts for up to five days.

It is necessary to keep the blood pressure in check. This leads to a later discharge from the hospital.

Drugs such as Atenolol, Nifedipine or ACE inhibitors are used to keep the hypertension under control.