Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension: Its Impact on Maternal and Foetal Health

Experiencing motherhood is a blessing, but some women may encounter medical challenges during the journey. One such condition is Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension , a form of high blood pressure that typically develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy and usually resolves after childbirth. Pregnancy-induced hypertension affects 6% to 8% of pregnancies and most commonly occurs in the second half of pregnancy. During this time, a woman’s heart works harder to pump increased volumes of blood, placing additional stress on the cardiovascular system.

High blood pressure during pregnancy can interfere with the normal development and functioning of the placenta. As a result, the foetus may receive reduced oxygen and nutrients, which can affect normal growth. For this reason, pregnancy-induced hypertension is associated with an increased risk of complications for both the mother and the baby if not appropriately monitored and managed.

It is important to note that pregnancy-induced hypertension may not always cause noticeable symptoms, so it’s important to attend all prenatal appointments that allow the doctor to monitor maternal blood pressure and foetal well-being closely, enabling early detection and timely management of the condition.

Types of high blood pressure during pregnancy

High blood pressure during pregnancy can be classified into different types based on when it develops and how it affects the mother and the baby.

Chronic hypertension

• Chronic hypertension refers to high blood pressure that is present  before pregnancy or is diagnosed early in pregnancy (before 20 weeks).
• Chronic hypertension may continue after the baby is born. 
• Women with chronic hypertension are at an increased risk of developing preeclampsia superimposed on chronic hypertension and therefore require close medical monitoring throughout pregnancy.

Gestational hypertension

• Gestational hypertension develops in the latter part of pregnancy (after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women who previously had normal blood pressure.
• In some cases,  gestational hypertension may progress to preeclampsia.
• More frequent antenatal visits and blood pressure monitoring are usually advised to ensure early detection of complications.

Preeclampsia

• Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific condition that typically develops in the second half of pregnancy or after 20 weeks of pregnancy and is characterized by high blood pressure along with signs of organ involvement.
• It is commonly diagnosed when increased blood pressure readings are accompanied by protein in the urine or other laboratory abnormalities.
• Preeclampsia can affect organs such as the liver, kidneys, lungs, brain and the placenta.
• In severe cases, it may lead to seizures (eclampsia), which requires urgent medical care.

Who is at higher risk of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy?

The chances of developing hypertension during pregnancy may be higher in women who:

• Are younger than 20 years or older than 40 years
• Have a history of gestational hypertension or preeclampsia in previous pregnancies
• Have a family history of hypertension or diabetes
• Have pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or autoimmune disorders
• Are carrying multiple pregnancies (twins or more)

How does hypertension affect the mother and the baby?

High blood pressure during pregnancy can increase the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby. In mothers, uncontrolled hypertension may lead to serious conditions such as strokes, seizures, placental complications, and an increased likelihood of operative or caesarean delivery. For the baby, pregnancy-related hypertension may be associated with reduced placental blood flow, which can result in low birth weight, premature birth, or, in rare cases, stillbirth. The risk depends on the severity of hypertension and how well it is monitored and managed.

Steps to Support a Safe Delivery When You Have High Blood Pressure

The following measures are commonly recommended to help manage high blood pressure during pregnancy, and support a safe delivery:

• Monitor Blood Pressure regularly, including at home if advised by your doctor
• Take prescribed blood pressure medication consistently and as directed. 
• Follow a balanced, nutritious diet and limit excess salt intake
• Attend all scheduled antenatal visits for close monitoring
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with appropriate physical activity, as approved by your doctor

If you are diagnosed with pregnancy-induced hypertension or gestational hypertension, it is important to work closely with your doctor to reduce the risk of complications and ensure timely, appropriate care.

Conclusion

Every woman experiencing motherhood deserves attentive and personalized care,.  as each pregnancy is unique and may come with its own challenges. Certain health conditions, such as hypertension during pregnancy, can increase the risk of complications, making regular medical supervision and self-care especially important. For expectant mothers, maintaining overall health – including the well-being  of the foetus - requires a balanced approach that prioritises regular antenatal care, a nutritious diet, and healthy lifestyle practices. Adequate nutrition plays a key role in supporting the increased physiological demands of pregnancy.

While many women strive to follow a healthy, well-balanced diet as advised by their doctor, meeting increased micro-nutrient requirements during pregnancy can sometimes be challenging. In such situations, prenatal nutritional supplements like Trimacare may serve as a supportive addition to a balanced diet. Formulated with essential micro-nutrients, Trimacare is designed to help support maternal nutritional needs during pregnancy. When combined with appropriate medical care and regular monitoring, nutritional support can contribute positively to overall maternal and foetal well-being throughout pregnancy.