How high blood pressure may increase the risk of complications during pregnancy – experts explain

Becoming a mother is a life-changing experience that can be both exciting and overwhelming. Pregnancy is a remarkable journey that involves significant changes in a woman’s body. The process of pregnancy lasts for about 40 weeks. During pregnancy, a number of physiological changes occur in a woman’s body to support the growth and development of the fetus. While most of these changes are normal and necessary, some women may experience complications that can affect their health and the well-being of the baby.

One such complication is hypertension, also known as hypertension, which is characterized by abnormally high blood pressure levels. But how does high blood pressure cause complications during pregnancy? Can high blood pressure have negative effects on pregnant women?

Dr Anuradha Kapoor, Senior Director and Head of Unit-Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Max Smart Super Specialty Hospital, Saket, explains how high blood pressure can affect a pregnant woman and the foetus.

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How does high BP affect pregnant women?

Dr Kapoor explains, “Hypertensive disorders (HDP) in pregnancy span a spectrum of disorders ranging from pre-existing chronic hypertension in pregnancy index to a complex multisystem disorder such as:

Complications from preeclampsia include eclampsia, HELLP syndrome, acute renal failure, pulmonary edema, stroke, and left ventricular failure.

According to a 2014 WHO report, 19 percent of all maternal deaths are due to high blood pressure in pregnant women.

How can high BP affect the fetus negatively?

Dr Kapoor explains that high blood pressure can negatively affect the fetus in the following ways:

– abortion

– preterm birth

– intrauterine growth retardation

– risk of fetal death with eclampsia and sudden bleeding

high blood pressure levels during pregnancy

Dr Kapoor explains, “Gestational hypertension is defined as a blood pressure of more than 140/90 mmHg on two occasions, 4 hours apart, after 20 weeks of pregnancy.”

Symptoms to watch out for in high BP during pregnancy

Dr Kapoor explains the following symptoms to look out for in high blood pressure during pregnancy:

– Headache

– blurry vision

– Swelling in the feet

– Pain in right upper abdomen

Decreased fetal movement

– Bleeding per vagina

Vomiting and sudden weight gain

Given the potential risks associated with high blood pressure during pregnancy, it is important for expectant mothers to receive proper prenatal care and closely monitor their blood pressure. Timely detection, management and treatment of hypertensive disorders are essential to ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and child.