High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy
High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is the most common medical disorder seen during pregnancy, affecting 6% to 8% of expectant mothers. Still, not all cases of hypertension in pregnancy look the same. Learn about the causes and risk factors, symptoms to watch for, potential complications, and how to manage and prevent this condition.
Types of High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
Hypertension in pregnant women falls into three categories. Each type requires different monitoring and treatment approaches:
- Chronic hypertension is present before pregnancy or appears before 20 weeks of gestation.
- Gestational hypertension develops after 20 weeks without protein in the urine.
- Preeclampsia is high blood pressure after 20 weeks with signs of organ dysfunction or proteinuria.
Causes and Risk Factors
Certain factors increase the risk of hypertension in pregnancy, including:
- A history of high blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Obesity
- Maternal age over 35
- Carrying more than one baby at a time
Genetics and abnormal placental development may also contribute to gestational hypertension or preeclampsia. Other influences include diet, anxiety levels, environmental toxin exposure, and lifestyle.
Symptoms to Watch For
Hypertension in pregnancy often doesn’t have symptoms, which is why regular prenatal visits are so important. These checkups allow your provider to monitor your blood pressure, test for protein in your urine, and watch for early signs of complications.
In addition to prenatal visits, seek prompt medical attention if symptoms of hypertension in pregnancy appear, including:
- Persistent headaches
- Blurry vision or light sensitivity
- Swelling in the face, hands, or feet
- Sudden weight gain
- Upper abdominal or chest pain
- Shortness of breath or chest tightness
Potential Complications for Mother and Baby
High blood pressure during pregnancy reduces blood flow through the placenta. This may result in:
- Low birth weight
- Fetal growth restriction
- Premature birth
- Stillbirth
Mothers may face:
- Kidney or liver damage
- Placental abruption
- Stroke
- Seizures
- Organ failure in severe cases
Management, Prevention, and Treatment
Preeclampsia often starts between 34 and 37 weeks and can escalate quickly if not addressed. Consistent prenatal care allows for early detection and timely intervention to protect both mother and baby.
To help prevent high blood pressure during pregnancy:
- Stay active: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity per week.
- Eat well: Focus on nutrient-rich foods and adequate calcium intake.
- Manage your weight: Follow healthy guidelines for pregnancy weight gain.
- Reduce stress: Practice calming routines and prioritize a good night’s sleep.
If treatment is needed, your provider may recommend:
- Medications: Labetalol, nifedipine, or methyldopa may be prescribed in severe cases.
- Magnesium sulfate: This is used to prevent seizures in preeclampsia.
- Early delivery: Sometimes, it’s necessary to induce labor for safety reasons.
Why Choose Advanced Functional Medicine?
High blood pressure during pregnancy demands immediate attention. Advanced Functional Medicine in San Diego takes the time to explore how nutrition, inflammation, stress, and environmental exposures may be contributing to your condition. We run comprehensive lab panels—including hormone levels, nutrient status, food sensitivities, and more—to uncover what your body needs. From there, we create a targeted plan to support blood pressure regulation, reduce the risk of complications, and promote a healthier pregnancy. Contact our San Diego clinic today to learn how we can care for you and your baby.