Gestational hypertension: What you need to know

The article was written by MSc Nguyen Van Phong - Internal Medicine and Cardiovascular Interventionist, Cardiovascular Center - Vinmec Times City International Hospital.

According to WHO, every year around the world there are about 200 million pregnant women, of which about 500,000 deaths are related to pregnancy. Cause of death: 15% related to hypertension, 20% related to other cardiovascular diseases.

Blood pressure during pregnancy is based on blood pressure readings at the hospital (or clinic). In which, systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥ 140 mmHg and/or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≥ 90 mmHg]. Classifying as mild (140-159/90-109 mmHg) or severe (≥ 160/110 mmHg) is different from the ESC/ESH hypertension guidelines.

Chronic hypertension: BP ≥ 140/90 mmHg present before pregnancy or before 20 weeks of pregnancy. Gestational hypertension: Hypertension in the second half, or after 20 weeks of pregnancy, usually returns to normal 6-7 weeks postpartum. Pre-eclampsia: Hypertension + Edema + Proteinuria (>0.3g). This clinical form usually presents in first pregnancy, multiple pregnancies, otomegaly, or antiphospholipid syndrome. Especially in the case of pregnant women with chronic hypertension, kidney disease or diabetes. Preeclampsia is usually diagnosed based on proteinuria and SBP >140mmHg or DBP >90mmHg. Occurs after 20 weeks in pregnant women with previously normal blood pressure. Preeclampsia is often associated with fetal growth retardation due to placental insufficiency. This is also the cause of premature birth. Preeclampsia on the background of chronic hypertension h: This possibility often occurs when pregnant women with hypertension have additional proteinuria for the first time.

Symptoms and signs may vary from person to person. There are even cases of the disease but completely without any symptoms.
Fetal ultrasound will help monitor fetal growth and reduce the risk of gestational hypertension.
Symptoms include:
Increased blood pressure Lack or protein in the urine Edema Sudden weight gain Changes in vision: blurred or double vision Nausea, vomiting Right side of the stomach or pain around the stomach Urinating less Change change liver or kidney function tests

High blood pressure can affect the health of both mother and unborn baby. The degree of impact of the disease depends on the duration of pregnancy and the degree of high blood pressure of the pregnant woman. The more severe the high blood pressure, the earlier it appears during pregnancy, the greater the risk for both mother and baby.
Up to one in four women with gestational hypertension go on to develop preeclampsia. This risk will double if the mother has high blood pressure before the 30th week. Besides, the fetus is also at risk of some complications such as growth retardation, placental abruption, stillbirth,...
Pregnant women with high blood pressure in the first pregnancy are likely to have it again in the future. Accordingly, the mother may also face high blood pressure and stroke later in life.
Pregnant women should remember, gestational hypertension if diagnosed early as well as timely treatment can prevent many dangerous complications. It is necessary for the mother to go to the antenatal clinic on time, have an ultrasound, and do the necessary tests as prescribed by the doctor.

When pregnant women suspect that they have high blood pressure, they should absolutely not self-medicate, and should immediately go to a medical facility that specializes in Cardiology for consultation and close monitoring during pregnancy.
Cardiovascular Clinic under Vinmec International Hospital system is a reliable address to help pregnant women monitor and take care of the health of both mother and baby.
Vinmec International General Hospital is one of the hospitals that not only ensures professional quality with a team of leading medical professionals, modern equipment and technology, but also stands out for its examination and consultation services. comprehensive and professional medical consultation and treatment; civilized, polite, safe and sterile medical examination and treatment space. Customers when choosing to perform tests here can be completely assured of the accuracy of test results.