24 Weeks and High Blood Pressure: Symptoms of Hypertension

High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy: Everything You Need to Know

As midwives, it is our job to inform you about various aspects of your pregnancy, including the possibility of developing high blood pressure. It is important to emphasize that not everyone develops high blood pressure during pregnancy. This article is intended to make you aware, not to worry you unnecessarily.

The importance of monitoring high blood pressure

During pregnancy, monitoring your blood pressure is an important part of your care. We do this because in some cases blood pressure can increase as the pregnancy progresses. Normal blood pressure is around 120/80, but an increase to 135/90 is considered too high. Especially if you had low blood pressure before pregnancy, even a slightly elevated blood pressure can be abnormal.

Professional care is crucial

It is essential that you do not measure your blood pressure yourself or have it measured by someone who is not specialized in pregnancy care, not even a family member or friend who is a nurse. We are specially trained to provide care around your pregnancy and baby. If you have any concerns about your blood pressure, please contact us immediately so that we can provide you with professional guidance and, if necessary, refer you to the hospital.

Possible consequences of high blood pressure

High blood pressure during pregnancy can have several consequences. It can affect the blood flow to the placenta, which can affect the supply of nutrition and oxygen to your baby. For you, it can lead to several health problems.

Symptoms to watch for

Do you recognize two or more of the following symptoms? Please contact us immediately:

• Headache
• Yield
• Blurred vision or seeing stars
• Pain in the upper abdomen
• Fluid retention in hands, ankles or face
• Pain between your shoulder blades

High blood pressure and preeclampsia

Causes and risks:

• Pre-existing hypertension: Women who had high blood pressure before pregnancy have an increased risk of complications.
• Gestational hypertension: Some women do not develop high blood pressure until pregnancy, which can lead to pregnancy complications.

Symptoms and monitoring:

High blood pressure can often be asymptomatic, making regular check-ups important. Symptoms such as headaches, visual changes, and swelling can manifest in severe cases.

Treatment:

Women with high blood pressure are often closely monitored by their midwife or physician. In some cases, medication may be needed to regulate blood pressure and reduce potential complications.

Preeclampsia and Eclampsia (Toxemia of Preeclampsia)

Preeclampsia is a serious complication that can develop in pregnant women, usually after the 20th week of pregnancy. It includes preeclampsia and eclampsia.

Preeclampsia:

• Features: High blood pressure, protein in the urine, and possible damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys.
• Symptoms: Headache, visual disturbances, abdominal pain, and swelling, especially in the face and hands.

Eclampsia:

• Features: Serious complication of preeclampsia, characterized by seizures.
• Symptoms: Convulsions, unconsciousness, and possibly life-threatening situations.

Treatment:

• Pregnant women with preeclampsia are carefully observed for possible progression to eclampsia.
• Premature delivery may be necessary to protect the lives of both mother and baby.

Important points to consider after giving birth

Even after delivery, it is important to remain alert to symptoms of high blood pressure. If you recognize these symptoms, inform the maternity care and us as your midwives immediately.

Advice for high blood pressure

Get plenty of rest and get some light exercise. If possible, try to sleep on your left side for optimal blood flow to the placenta.

Fellow sufferers

Have you had preeclampsia and would you like to talk about it with others who have had the same experience? Then take a look at the website of the Stichting HELLP. 

Conclusion

Remember that this information is meant to educate you, not to alarm you. Not everyone develops high blood pressure during pregnancy. If you have any doubts or concerns, we, your midwives, are always here to support you.

Love,

The midwives of PuurBegin

With kind regards,

The midwives of PuurBegin