Pregnancy Induced Hypertension

Pregnancy induced hypertension is a condition also known as gestational hypertension. Pre-eclampsia and proteinuria are also associated with the condition.

How does it manifest?

Pregnancy induced hypertension is actually a result of high blood pressure. This happens when the pressure inside the arteries is higher than normal (hypertension) and it means that the blood is pushing against the walls of the arteries harder than usual. The modern-day term used to define hypertension during pregnancy is hypertensive disorder during pregnancy.

Hypertensive disorders manifest at four different levels resulting in four different conditions:

  • Gestational hypertension
  • Chronic hypertension
  • Preeclampsia and eclampsia
  • Chronic hypertension featuring preeclampsia and eclampsia

    Pregnancy induced hypertension is detected in early prenatal visits – that is why it is important to have these as often as possible in order to avoid further complications.







    Todays Women and Health Recommends: The Pregnancy Bible: Your Complete Guide to Pregnancy and Early Parenthood






    Gestational hypertension usually appears around the 20th week of pregnancy – just about halfway through. The baby is now pretty big and taking up space in your uterus. The size of the baby or babies (multiple pregnancies) will stretch the uterus walls, putting pressure on the arteries that travel down to your legs. This extra pressure on the arteries can result in higher blood pressure and can lead to hypertension.

    Symptoms associated with gestational hypertension include:

  • Raise in blood pressure
  • Blurry vision
  • Severe headaches
  • Vision spotting
  • Decreased amount of urine
  • Protein found in urine
  • Excessive and rapid weight gain

    There is still a massive debate about the reasons that lead to hypertensive disorders during pregnancies. While genetic predisposition is unanimously supported, speculation surrounds placental and hormonal involvement or an underlying disease. One in every 14 pregnant women will experience gestational hypertension. The general physical condition of the mother may contribute to hypertension. Most affected women are those who are under age 20 or over age 35. A history of chronic hypertension in the family can lead to an increased predisposition toward the condition. Other conditions that increase the risk of hypertension during pregnancy are:

  • Kidney diseases
  • Obesity or malnourishment
  • Heavy drug, alcohol and tobacco use
  • Immune system disorders (rheumatoid arthritis or lupus)
  • Multiple pregnancy (twins, triplets)

    Diagnosis and treatment

    Pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) is diagnosed by your doctor in early prenatal visits. Your blood pressure, weight and urine are constantly monitored during these visits and they can all point out to possible hypertension disorders. If PIH is discovered or suspected, you and your baby will go through what is called a non-stress test. This test will monitor the baby’s heart rate while you will have to take a note every time it moves. By comparing heart rate changes of the baby, an accurate diagnosis can be made and treatment provided.

    Ultrasounds also are a way of determining if there are reasons to worry or not. Treatment involves anything for longer rests to hypertensive medication. A diet may also be recommended to deal with the disorder. In extreme cases, magnesium is delivered through an IV and if the condition persists, the baby will have to be delivered prematurely. If left untreated it can lead to seizures, temporary kidney failure, maternal bleeding, liver problems, blood clotting and forced early delivery of a premature baby.

    "Achieving A Healthy Lifestyle For Women's Health and Fitness"

    • New Articles

    All About Herpes - As a sufferer of herpes myself, I have decided to add a section to this site discussing the Herpes virus and how to treat and prevent outbreaks.

    Dental Sedation Treatment - Scared of the dentist? Learn how dental sedation treatment can help you overcome your dental fears and keep your teeth in tip top heatlh.

    Diabetes and Heart Healthy Meals for Two provides 170 plus delicious recipes for two people! So if you've been looking for smaller portions and healthier recipes - this book will work for you!

    Anti Aging Skin Care check out our new section on anti-aging health. We will be reviewing skin care creams, supplements, and more to help you stay young.



    Pregnancy Articles