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Hypertension in Pregnancy

Hypertension (high blood pressure) that occurs during pregnancy is called pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH). Most women who develop PIH did not have hypertension before pregnancy and will not have it after. PIH was formerly known as toxemia. While the cause of PIH is unknown, some studies suggest that the blame lies with an imbalance of the substances that regulate the constriction and dilation of the blood vessels. The risk factors include turedity, a diet low in protein or calcium, a history of preeclampsia prior to 32 weeks gestation, chronic high blood pressure, kidney disease, lupus, diabetes, multiple pregnancy, age (under 20 or over 35), and being overweight. A new theory states that PIH may be an immune response to a new sex partsince 85 percent of cases occur in first-time pregnancies. Several studies have shown that a good diet can reduce the risk of developing PIH. A diet containing 75 to 100 grams of protein and 1,500 to 2,000 milligrams of calcium recommended.

PIH affects both the woman and the fetus. High blood pressure constricts tie Mood flow to the uterus. This can result in the baby receiving less oxygen and nutrients, which will affect his growth. In addition, the placenta may sepirmre from the wall of the uterus before delivery and result in bleeding and shock. If untreated, PIH can become preeclampsia, which is characterized by vim blood pressure, protein in the urine, sudden weight gain, and swelling of lte face and hands. It may be necessary to induce labor if the blood pressure do not controlled. This may lead to a premature infant. Rarely, preeclampsia incresses to eclampsia, which is marked by convulsions, coma, or even much of the woman or baby.

Treatment of PIH consists of bed rest for mild conditions. Occasionally, a caiman must be hospitalized. If the blood pressure is not controlled, delivery by induction of labor or cesarean section may be necessary to save the lives of the woman and baby. The medication magnesium sulfate is administered intravenously to prevent convulsions. The risk of seizures diminishes 48 artirs after delivery of the baby.

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