Gestational

hypertension
When you're pregnant, it's common to have high blood pressure. Up to 8% of pregnant women
in the U.S. have high blood pressure, usually during their first pregnancies. If you first develop
it when you're expecting, it's called gestational hypertension or pregnancy induced
hypertension.

You should know that most women with gestational hypertension have healthy pregnancies and
healthy babies. But, high blood pressure during pregnancy can be a sign of other conditions that
can be much more harmful. That's one reason why seeing your doctor early and often is so
important in keeping you and your baby healthy.

What Is Gestational Hypertension?

Gestational hypertension occurs when your blood pressure rises in the second half of your
pregnancy. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against artery walls
through blood vessels. When this force measures more than 140/90 mm Hg, doctors consider
your blood pressure to be high.

The good news is that, if you develop high blood pressure during pregnancy, it should go back to
normal about 6 weeks after you give birth.

How Can It Affect My Baby and Me?

High blood pressure can hurt you and your baby. The effects can be mild to very severe. It may
cause no problems. Or it may:

 Damage your kidneys and other organs

 Reduce blood flow to the placenta, which means your baby receives less oxygen and
fewer nutrients
 Cause your baby to be born too small or too soon
 Put you at risk for possible heart disease or high blood pressure when you become older

In severe cases, gestational hypertension leads to preeclampsia, also known as toxemia. It can
harm the placenta as well as your brain, liver, and kidneys. Preeclampsia can lead to eclampsia,
a rare and serious condition that can cause seizures and coma -- even death.
Who Is at Risk for Gestational Hypertension?
You are at greater risk for gestational hypertension if you:

 Are having your first baby

 Were overweight or obese before you became pregnant
 Are age 40 or older
 Are African-American
 Have a history of PIH or preeclampsia

Women pregnant with twins are also at greater risk.