Gestational Hypertension
- Takudzwa
- 20 hours ago
- 3 min read
Gestational hypertension is characterized by blood pressure equal to or greater than 140/90 mmHg. It increases risks for both the baby and the mother, such as preterm birth, organ damage, and placental abruption. The diagnosis is made when symptoms such as headaches, swelling, and vision changes are accompanied by blood pressure readings consistently at 140/90 mmHg or higher. Gestational hypertension affects 8-10% of all pregnancies. Studies show that hypertension disorders complicate 5-10% of all pregnancies. The incidence of hypertension is increasing due to shifts in maternal demographics, such as older maternal age and higher pre-pregnancy body weight.
Gestational hypertension begins 20 weeks after pregnancy and ends shortly after the birth of the baby. High blood pressure affects the body differently during pregnancy. The heart works harder during pregnancy as it has to pump more blood.
Types of high blood pressure one can get during pregnancy
Gestational hypertension – high blood pressure after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
Chronic hypertension – elevated blood pressure before pregnancy or before 20 weeks of pregnancy. This type of hypertension continues after the birth of the baby.
Preeclampsia – this is a condition only found in the second half of pregnancy, usually after 27 weeks of pregnancy.
Symptoms
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headaches
- Edema (swelling)
- Pain around the abdominal area
- Sudden weight gain
- Changes in vision
Gestational hypertension risk factors
- People over the age of 40 or under the age of 20
- Family history of gestational hypertension
- Diabetes or gestational diabetes
- Gestational hypertension in previous pregnancies
- Expecting multiple babies (twins, etc.)
- Kidney disease
The dangers of gestational hypertension
The following complications may arise in uncontrolled gestational hypertension
- Stroke
- Seizures
- Acute kidney failure
- Blood clotting issues
Treatment and management
High blood pressure during pregnancy is treated and managed in a variety of ways. The severity of the condition determines the type of treatment. Your healthcare provider will monitor your blood pressure closely and evaluate the symptoms of hypertension. Gestational hypertension may mean more frequent prenatal appointments for blood pressure monitoring.
Management of gestational hypertension includes:
- Medication to decrease blood pressure e,g, hydralazine or nifedipine
- Monitoring blood pressure at home
- Hospitalization
Is gestational hypertension preventable?
Given that the causes of gestational hypertension are unknown, it is difficult to prevent. However, there are measures one can take to prevent gestational hypertension, namely:
- Eating a healthy diet
- Maintaining a healthy body weight
- Avoiding alcohol and smoking
- Getting plenty of rest
In some cases, healthcare professionals prescribe aspirin if a high risk of gestational hypertension is determined.
Conclusion
Gestational hypertension, or high blood pressure during pregnancy, can pose risks to both mother and baby. Fortunately, it often resolves after delivery. Management typically includes regular blood pressure monitoring, medication, and lifestyle adjustments. When well-controlled, it rarely leads to major complications; however, if left untreated, it may result in premature birth, placental abruption, or other serious outcomes. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns about your blood pressure or its management.
References
1 Luger RK, Kight BP. Hypertension In Pregnancy. [Updated 2022 Oct 3]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430839/
2 Spiro L, Scemons D. Management of Chronic and Gestational Hypertension of Pregnancy: A Guide for Primary Care Nurse Practitioners. Open Nurs J. 2018;12:180-183.
4 Catov JM, Countouris M, Hauspurg A. Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy and CVD Prediction: Accounting for Risk Accrual During the Reproductive Years. J Am Coll Cardiol. 2018 Sep 11;72(11):1264-1266.
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