What is hypertension in pregnancy?
When blood pressure rises steadily after the end of the second trimester of pregnancy, this is called hypertension during pregnancy.
It is essential to keep blood pressure values under control, as both mother and baby may suffer unpleasant consequences in case of a prolonged disturbance.
Symptoms of hypertension in pregnancy
The main symptoms of gestational hypertension are mostly decreased urination, pain in the abdomen, swelling of the ankles and face, headache, vomiting, general fatigue accompanied in some cases by preeclampsia.
Diagnosis of hypertension in pregnancy
The method of diagnosing hypertension during pregnancy is based on the constant measurement of systolic pressure, which should never exceed 30 mmHg, diastolic (
Blood pressure should be monitored especially during pregnancy because of the problems it can cause in the development of the fetus.
What are the causes of hypertension in pregnancy?
The underlying cause of hypertension in pregnancy has not yet been fully elucidated. At the moment, a higher incidence has been observed in women older than 35 years with previous pregnancies or similar cases in the family.
The combination of different factors such as a weakened immune system, placental abnormalities and poor nutrition in calcium, zinc and protein ultimately plays a major role in the development of the disease.
Can it be prevented?
Prevention is essential to avoid this disease as much as possible. It is important to maintain an optimal weight even before becoming pregnant. Therefore, obesity or being overweight should be absolutely avoided, since during the nine months of pregnancy the weight will tend to undergo physiological changes, with the risk of developing hypertension.
Maintaining an adequate weight requires a proper diet, which is achieved by avoiding binge eating, varying nutrients and providing the right amount of hydration by drinking 2 liters of water a day.
Smoking and drinking alcohol are completely forbidden, as they increase up to 10 times more the chances of suffering from the disease.
Finally, a good habit in case of clinical doubt will be to measure blood pressure every month increasing the frequency to every week during the last three months.
Treatments for hypertension in pregnancy
Generally, hypertension does not prevent pregnancy from proceeding and only when the 40th week is reached can the specialist decide to induce pregnancy only in critical cases. The treatment consists of medication, but it must always be carefully assessed, given the possible side effects it may have on the future baby, such as neonatal mortality or growth interruption. Very often, rest is prescribed to increase blood circulation, especially in the uterine-placental area.
Which specialist to contact?
The specialist who will be in charge of keeping the tension of expectant mothers under control is the gynecologist.