Pregnancy is an exciting time. The connection you feel with the life growing inside you is like no other experience. But as with any major life journey, there may be some bumps along the way. High blood pressure in pregnancy is one health concern that can lead to complications for both the mother and the developing fetus. But do not worry—with the help of your doctor and some simple lifestyle changes, you can have a happy, healthy pregnancy.
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition in which the force of your blood against the walls of your blood vessels is too strong. Over time, this force puts stress on your heart and other organs.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), high blood pressure during pregnancy is called pregnancy dizziness. It is due to a deficiency of liver and kidney yin, qi stagnation, or poor energy flow with an accumulation of phlegm, and qi and blood deficiency. This imbalance causes a lack of nourishment to both the mother's brain and the baby's brain.
Some women have high blood pressure before they get pregnant. Others develop it for the first time during pregnancy. Lifestyle choices factor into the risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy. Potential causes include:
It is important to take steps to manage high blood pressure during pregnancy because of the risk to both mother and child.
If you had high blood pressure before the start of your pregnancy, or develop high blood pressure before 20 weeks of pregnancy, you have chronic high blood pressure. You and your doctor should work to control it before pregnancy using medication and lifestyle changes, including improved nutrition, weight management, and regular physical activity. Continue these practices throughout pregnancy under your doctor’s advice.
Gestational hypertension occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy. It is characterized by:
This condition can often be managed well, but women with gestational hypertension are monitored regularly for signs of preeclampsia and to ensure their blood pressure does not rise to severe levels.
Preeclampsia is a serious high blood pressure disorder that usually occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy or soon after childbirth. It requires close medical management to reduce risks for both mother and baby.
Potential complications include:
If you experience severe headache, vision changes, upper abdominal pain, nausea, or reduced urine output, contact your doctor immediately.
You can make lifestyle changes to help manage high blood pressure and have a healthier pregnancy.
Adjusting your mindset is crucial. Staying cheerful, avoiding overthinking, and getting ample sleep in a peaceful environment can help. Foot soaks in warm water before bed may also promote relaxation (avoid this if you have swollen feet).
Gentle exercises like walking, yoga, tai chi, and qigong can maintain heart health and control weight gain. Always consult your doctor before starting new exercises.
Studies show acupuncture can help lower blood pressure and relieve pregnancy discomforts. Work with qualified practitioners to ensure safe treatments.
Limit salt intake and include foods high in protein, vitamins, and minerals, such as leafy greens, garlic, lean meats, and omega-3-rich fish. A small amount of dark chocolate is also beneficial.
Work closely with your doctor and TCM practitioner to monitor your condition and adopt healthy lifestyle habits for a safe and happy pregnancy.
If you know someone managing high blood pressure during pregnancy, share this article with her.
