Managing Hypertension Before Pregnancy What You Need to Know

Managing Hypertension Before Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. For women who are planning to become pregnant, managing hypertension before pregnancy is important for both maternal and fetal health. Here's what you need to know about hypertension and pregnancy, and how to manage hypertension before becoming pregnant.

Hypertension can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, including preeclampsia, preterm birth, and low birth weight. Preeclampsia is a serious condition that can cause high blood pressure and damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys. Preterm birth is when a baby is born before 37 weeks of pregnancy, and low birth weight is when a baby weighs less than 5 pounds, 8 ounces at birth.

If you have hypertension and are planning to become pregnant, it is important to work with your doctor to manage your blood pressure before becoming pregnant. This may include lifestyle changes such as losing weight, eating a healthy diet, reducing salt intake, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking. Your doctor may also recommend medication to help manage your blood pressure.

It is important to monitor your blood pressure regularly, both before and during pregnancy. Your doctor may recommend more frequent blood pressure checks during pregnancy, especially if you have a history of hypertension or other risk factors for complications.

In addition to managing hypertension, it is important to take steps to prepare for a healthy pregnancy. This may include taking a prenatal vitamin, getting regular exercise, and avoiding alcohol and tobacco. It is also important to talk to your doctor about any medications you are taking, as some medications can be harmful during pregnancy.

If you have hypertension and are planning to become pregnant, it is important to work closely with your doctor to manage your blood pressure and reduce your risk of complications. By taking steps to prepare for a healthy pregnancy, you can help ensure the best possible outcomes for both you and your baby.

In conclusion, managing hypertension before pregnancy is important for both maternal and fetal health. Hypertension can increase the risk of complications during pregnancy, including preeclampsia, preterm birth, and low birth weight. If you have hypertension and are planning to become pregnant, it is important to work with your doctor to manage your blood pressure and take steps to prepare for a healthy pregnancy. By taking a proactive approach to managing hypertension before pregnancy, you can help ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.