Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is one of the more common chronic conditions which may impact a women’s pregnancy and can have negative effects on the baby, if not managed appropriately. Dr. Vybert Greene, Obstetrician and Gynecologist at MetroSouth Medical Center urges women not to panic. Many women with chronic high blood pressure have successful pregnancies and healthy babies. However, a strong relationship, some planning and team work between the mother and her OB is crucial.

Like many conditions, the effects of high blood pressure range from mild to severe. Women should have a blood pressure reading below 120/80 before getting pregnant (90 – 119 healthy range for systolic pressure, or the top number; 60-79 is the healthy range for diastolic pressure or the bottom number). Dr. Greene recommends the following steps both before and during pregnancy to give mother and baby the best chance.

Before pregnancy

• Planning is a critical first step in a nice pregnancy. Work with a qualified doctor, such as the team at MetroSouth Medical Center to lower blood pressure to within healthy ranges.
• Excess weight and a sedentary lifestyle can contribute to high blood pressure. Work now to develop healthy habits which will carry over to your new family.
• Patient compliance to prescribing guidelines is critical. Take blood pressure medication as prescribed.
• During your pre-conception consultation with your OB or Family Medicine physician, ask if the blood pressure medication is safe to use during pregnancy.

During pregnancy

• Prenatal care is also critical for women who suffer from chronic hypertension. It is important that prenatal care begin as soon as possible after conceiving and continue at very regular intervals. Changes in blood pressure and weight can be detected and addressed as soon as they occur.
• Kidney disease may further complicate a pregnancy. Women with chronic kidney disease should of course discuss this with their physician.
• Preeclampsia is more common in women with chronic high blood pressure. Warning signs of preeclampsia include headaches, visual problems, rapid weight gain and swelling in the hands and face and should be addressed by a physician immediately.
• Women with chronic high blood pressure may be requested to monitor their blood pressure and weight at home.

If you have any questions or comments regarding the information provided above, please let us know by responding to our blog below. Appointment requests can be obtained by emailing us at info@metrosouthmedicalcenter.com or by calling 708 489-7925.