Hypertension And Pregnancy: How High BP Can Affect The Growth & Development Of The Baby

According to the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of India, about 7-10% of pregnant women suffer from hypertension. The condition can impact the foetus inside the womb. The incidents have been found to depend on the body, age, medical history, and Body Mass Index (BMI).

It is a matter of concern in India because it has been linked to high risks of maternal and foetal complications. Preeclampsia (high blood pressure with urine retention) is the leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in the country.

Dr Pooja C Thukral, Consultant - Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Cloudnine Groups of Hospitals, Faridabad, said hypertension or gestational hypertension is a medical condition in which the blood pressure of a pregnant woman rises. The condition can only be diagnosed after 20 weeks of pregnancy and can impact both mother and the foetus adversely.

Symptoms To Look For

When trying to diagnose hypertension, a doctor sees:

• If the reading of blood pressure is 140/90 mmHg or higher, twice taken six hours apart, a pregnant woman is suffering from hypertension.
• Absence of proteinuria, a protein found in the urine, is a key factor in diagnosing preeclampsia. However, if a woman does not have symptoms like headache, upper abdominal pain, decreased urine output, and visual disturbances, she would be diagnosed with gestational hypertension.

In such a case, Dr Thukral said the expert would monitor the patient and her unborn child closely, suggest modification in lifestyle and ask to change the diet and exercise regularly. In some cases, they would prescribe the medicines to lower the blood pressure, however, these medicines must not be taken without prescription.

How Hypertension Can Affect The Unborn Baby

One of the severe complications of hypertension is preeclampsia which can

• Damage organs of the mother, including the liver and kidneys
• Lead to seizure
• Affect the growth and development of the baby
• Other potential complications related to high blood pressure during pregnancy include:
• Low birth weight
• Preterm labour
• Abruption of placenta

How To Manage High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy

Dr Thukral said a pregnant woman must attend all prenatal appointments and share any fishing experience with their healthcare expert. It can be a headache, swelling anywhere, or abdominal pain. Here is how you can manage high blood pressure during pregnancy

• Exercising regularly can help to keep hypertension in check. However, you must check with your doctor about the kind and intensity of exercises you can perform at different stages of the gestation period.
• Following a healthy and balanced diet can help to manage blood pressure. A diet rich in vegetables, fruits, low-fat dairy products, and whole grains must be preferred.
• Managing stress is also essential to managing hypertension. You can do yoga, meditation, and perform breathing exercises.
• Medication is necessary if there is an existing condition, and the healthcare expert must be aware of it.

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Supplements That Can Help To Prevent High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy

Magnesium: It is crucial to regulate blood pressure. You can include food items like spinach, almonds, and avocados in your diet to make a mineral-rich meal.

Coenzyme Q10: It is an antioxidant that reduces inflammation and oxidative stress that can contribute to hypertension.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: It is usually found in fish oil supplements and has been found to lower blood pressure.

Calcium: It is important for maintaining blood pressure in the normal range. It can be found in leafy greens, dairy products, and fortified cereals.

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Pregnant women must stay in touch with their doctors and Immediately report any issues they face. If caught early, many complications can be avoided, managed, and treated. Stay tuned to HerZindagi for more such stories.