Source: timesnownews.com
New Delhi: Heart diseases are one of the leading causes of death all around the world. A recent study also showed that women are at a higher risk of heart diseases, as compared to men. Women go through various changes in their body, especially during and after pregnancy. Gestational diabetes, which is described as high blood sugar during pregnancy, which goes back to normal levels after the delivery of the baby is a common condition that pregnant women suffer from. High blood pressure is also pretty common in pregnant women.
A recent study has shown that blood pressure rises more quickly in women than in men. According to the study, this is because women’s blood vessels age more quickly. Apart from these factors, pregnancy can also lead to hypertension.
Hypertension when expecting a baby – All you need to know
Hypertension during pregnancy can increase the risk for both the mother and the baby. It can cause problems even after delivery of the baby. Therefore, it is important to prevent and treat the condition at the earliest.
According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, USA, it was found that hypertension during pregnancy is experienced by 1 in every 12-17 women, of the age 20 to 44.
What are the causes of high blood pressure during pregnancy?
The first measure to prevent a condition is to understand its causes and risk factors. Factors like obesity, lack of physical activity, smoking, drinking, or autoimmune disorders like type 1 diabetes can be contributing causes of hypertension during pregnancy. Other factors include age, multiple babies, first-time pregnancy, assistive reproductive technology, or family history of hypertension can also contribute as a risk factor.
How can high blood pressure be prevented during pregnancy?
For the prevention of high blood pressure during pregnancy, it is important to get the right treatment for blood pressure problems before you get pregnant. If you are planning to have a baby and have high blood pressure, you must consult your doctor for treatment. Even after getting pregnant, it is important to continue treatment during and after the pregnancy as well.
Apart from treatment, regular exercise or physical activity that ensures a healthy weight can help in preventing high blood pressure before and during pregnancy. During pregnancy, you must keep a check on your blood pressure regularly, and consult your doctor for medicines for the condition, which will not interfere with the baby and its development.
What complications can occur due to high blood pressure during pregnancy?
Hypertension can cause various complications for the mother and the baby, both during and after the pregnancy. The mother can be at a high risk of stroke, kidney damage, and seizures. The mother may also be in need of labour induction, due to high blood pressure.
For the baby, high BP can lead to preterm birth, which comes with its own set of complications and risks. Low birth weight is also common in babies born to mothers with high blood pressure. The mother’s high BP makes it difficult for the baby to get enough oxygen and nutrients, and the baby may need to be delivered early.