You’re five months pregnant and everything seems on track, until a routine check-up reveals high blood pressure. In India, hypertension often doesn’t raise alarms, but in pregnancy, it’s a red flag that calls for close attention and care. Hypertension during pregnancy is more common than many realise, but with understanding, right knowledge and care you can reduce risks for both you and your baby.

What is Hypertension in Pregnancy?

Hypertension or high blood pressure is when your blood pressure reading is around 140/90 mm Hg or higher. High blood pressure can be a pre-existing condition or can occur at any time during your pregnancy.

There are several types of hypertensions that you could be diagnosed with:

• Gestational hypertension:  Hypertension that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy. There’s no excess protein in the urine, and no other signs of organ damage usually exist.
• Preeclampsia: Preeclampsia occurs when hypertension develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy, with/without protein loss in urine. It may be associated with signs of damage to other organ systems, including the kidneys, liver, blood, or brain.
• Chronic hypertension: High blood pressure develops before or during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy.
• Chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia: Preeclampsia, which develops in someone who already has chronic hypertension.

Why is it dangerous?

If unmanaged, high blood pressure can cause serious complications. For mothers, it may lead to seizures, stroke, liver problems or kidney failure. It can cause poor growth, early delivery, and even placental separation for babies.

Who is at risk?

First-time mums, women over 35, those with a high BMI, twin pregnancies, or underlying health conditions like diabetes or kidney disease face a higher risk.

Managing hypertension in pregnancy

The good news? With proper care, most women have healthy pregnancies and babies. Regular blood pressure checks, awareness of warning signs (like headaches, blurred vision, or swelling), and following medication schedules are key. Total salt restriction isn’t necessary, but cutting back on salty snacks is wise. Sometimes, early delivery is recommended to avoid complications.

What about after birth?

High blood pressure doesn’t always disappear right after delivery. Some women may need continued medication and regular follow-ups. A spike in BP can occur around day 3 or 4 postpartum, so it’s essential to stay alert.

Can it be prevented?

While not always preventable, early screening and preconception counselling for at-risk women can help. Monitoring blood flow and placental health in the first trimester can also predict the risk of preeclampsia.

Hypertension in pregnancy is serious, but with the right support, education, and timely care, you can protect your health and your baby’s.