High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy: What You Should Know
Nurturing KoshaShare
If your blood pressure readings have started to creep up during pregnancy, you’re not alone — and you don’t need to panic.
High blood pressure (hypertension) is fairly common in pregnancy, and with early detection and the right care, most women go on to have completely healthy babies.
Let’s understand what it means, when to be cautious, and how you can support your body naturally.
What Counts as High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy
During pregnancy, your doctor regularly checks your blood pressure — the force of blood against your artery walls.
- A normal reading is around 120/80 mmHg.
- Anything above 140/90 mmHg on more than one occasion is considered high.
Blood pressure can rise for different reasons — sometimes temporarily, sometimes more persistently. The type and timing matter.
Types of High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy
| Type | When It Happens | What It Means |
|---|---|---|
| Gestational Hypertension | After 20 weeks of pregnancy | High BP without other symptoms; usually goes away after birth. |
| Chronic Hypertension | Before pregnancy or before 20 weeks | Pre-existing high BP that needs monitoring throughout. |
| Preeclampsia | After 20 weeks, with protein in urine or swelling | A serious condition needing close medical care. |
According to the World Health Organization, preeclampsia affects around 2–8% of pregnancies, but early screening and management drastically reduce risks for both mother and baby.
Why It Matters
Uncontrolled high blood pressure can reduce blood flow to the placenta, which may affect your baby’s growth or lead to complications like preterm birth.
That’s why regular monitoring and gentle lifestyle changes make such a difference — they help keep your numbers stable and your pregnancy on track.
What You Can Do
1. Monitor Regularly
Track your readings at every antenatal visit. Your doctor may suggest home monitoring if your BP tends to rise.
2. Rest and Manage Stress
High BP often worsens with stress or fatigue. Rest when you can and include calm routines like deep breathing or guided relaxation.
3. Eat Mindfully
- Reduce salt and processed foods.
- Eat potassium-rich options like bananas, lentils, and leafy greens.
- Stay hydrated — dehydration can affect blood pressure too.
4. Move Safely
Gentle daily walks or prenatal yoga (with your doctor’s approval) can improve circulation and keep your heart healthy.
5. Follow Medical Advice
If medication is prescribed, take it exactly as directed. Some blood pressure medicines are safe during pregnancy and protect both you and your baby.
When to Call Your Doctor
Reach out immediately if you notice:
- Severe headache or blurred vision
- Sudden swelling in face, hands, or feet
- Pain in the upper abdomen
- Nausea or vomiting in the third trimester
These can be signs of preeclampsia, which requires prompt medical attention.
The Bottom Line
High blood pressure in pregnancy isn’t uncommon — and with early monitoring, mindful habits, and regular care, most women deliver safely and recover fully.
Your care team’s goal is simple: to keep both your heart and your baby’s heartbeat steady and strong. Listen to your body, rest when you need to, and remember — awareness is your biggest form of protection.