High blood pressure in pregnancy is serious, but our OBGYNs can help manage it
Having a healthy pregnancy is every mother’s goal. However, pregnancy complications like preeclampsia can occur. Also known as high blood pressure in pregnancy, this condition is serious. Monitoring and medications can help manage it, though.
At Heights Obstetrics & Gynecology, our San Antonio OBGYNs are here for you during every step of pregnancy. We provide compassionate and skilled care, as well as information to help you manage high blood pressure while you’re expecting.
What are the symptoms of preeclampsia in pregnancy?
The most common sign of preeclampsia is high blood pressure. It typically occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy, with most cases occurring in the third trimester (after 27 weeks).
This pregnancy complication can also cause the following symptoms.
- Excess protein in the urine
- Decreased platelets in the blood
- Higher liver enzymes
- Intense headaches and vision changes
- Shortness of breath
- Pain in the upper abdomen, nausea or vomiting
- Sudden weight gain, especially in the hands or face.
Many pregnant patients don’t have symptoms of high blood pressure in pregnancy. As a result, our San Antonio OBGYNs routinely screen for this complication.
Learn more about the causes and risk factors for high blood pressure in pregnancy
Patients often ask, “What causes preeclampsia in pregnancy?” Experts believe that it is due to an issue with the placenta that nourishes the developing baby.
When a woman has preeclampsia, the blood vessels to her placenta don’t work properly. This can lead to issues with blood circulation and blood pressure.
Additionally, the following conditions can increase the risk of developing preeclampsia.
- Carrying more than one baby per pregnancy
- A history of preeclampsia or chronic high blood pressure
- Type 1 or 2 diabetes before pregnancy
- Kidney disease or autoimmune disorders
- Having a body mass index (BMI) in the obese range
Our San Antonio OBGYNs will review your health history with you to determine whether you have a higher risk of developing this pregnancy complication.
Proper monitoring and treatment can help manage high blood pressure in pregnancy
Being proactive about preeclampsia can help you and your baby stay healthy and safe. To prevent preeclampsia, it’s wise to be as healthy as possible before conceiving.
Additionally, if you are at risk for this condition, our doctors may suggest taking a low-dose aspirin every day after 12 weeks of pregnancy. However, please consult with your doctor before starting daily aspirin.
If you develop high blood pressure in pregnancy, our San Antonio OBGYNs can develop a customized treatment plan for you. This plan may include the following measures.
- If you are at least 37 weeks pregnant, your doctor may recommend early delivery of your baby.
- If you have high blood pressure earlier in your pregnancy, you will come in more frequently for prenatal monitoring. You may also need bed rest for the remainder of your pregnancy.
If you have preeclampsia, our experienced OBGYNs are here to support you. We will provide the care you need during this important time.
Contact us if you would like to learn more about high blood pressure in pregnancy or other pregnancy-related issues.
