Measuring blood pressure during pregnancy

Pregnancy is a complex journey that every woman experiences differently. While some have smooth and worry-free pregnancies, others may experience complications, especially when it comes to their blood pressure.

Measuring blood pressure is one way to monitor the health of a woman during pregnancy, but it is often misunderstood and overlooked. In this article, we will explore the significance of measuring blood pressure during pregnancy, how it is done, and what to expect.

What even is a blood pressure?

Blood pressure is the force exerted by blood on the walls of arteries as it flows through them. It is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and consists of two numbers: the systolic pressure (top number) and the diastolic pressure (bottom number). The systolic pressure refers to the highest pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, while the diastolic pressure refers to the lowest pressure in the arteries when the heart is at rest between beats.

Why your blood pressure is especially interesting during pregnancy

During pregnancy, a woman's body undergoes numerous physiological changes that affect her blood pressure. Hormones, such as progesterone, cause the blood vessels to relax, leading to a decrease in blood pressure in the first two trimesters. However, in the third trimester, the blood pressure tends to increase again. This increase in blood pressure can be due to various reasons, including pre-eclampsia, gestational hypertension, and chronic hypertension, each with its own set of risks and implications.

Pregnancy complications that can be detected using your blood pressure

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy-related complication characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs, most commonly the liver and kidneys. This condition can cause serious complications for the mother and baby, such as preterm birth, fetal growth restriction, seizures, and even death. Gestational hypertension, on the other hand, is a form of high blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy and affects about 6-8% of pregnancies. It usually goes away after the baby is born but still warrants careful monitoring. Chronic hypertension, also known as high blood pressure before pregnancy, can also complicate pregnancy and contribute to pre-eclampsia.

Given the potential consequences of high blood pressure during pregnancy, screening and monitoring become critical. Blood pressure is typically measured at every prenatal visit using a device called a sphygmomanometer, which consists of a cuff, a pump, and a pressure gauge. The cuff is wrapped around the upper arm, and the pump inflates it to temporarily cut off blood flow. The pressure gauge then measures the force of the blood flow as the cuff is slowly deflated, revealing the systolic and diastolic pressure. Blood pressure measurement is usually taken in a quiet room, with the patient seated for a few minutes to allow for relaxation.

Better safe than sorry

Apart from measuring blood pressure, various other tests can be done to assess the health of the mother and baby during pregnancy. These tests may include urine protein tests, blood tests, and ultrasounds to monitor fetal growth and movements.

Additionally, lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding alcohol and smoking can have a beneficial effect on blood pressure during pregnancy.

Measuring blood pressure during pregnancy is an essential aspect of prenatal care that helps identify potential complications and ensure the health of the mother and baby. Understanding how blood pressure is measured and how it changes during pregnancy can help women recognize when they need to seek medical attention. Regular prenatal visits and communication with your doctor remain critical in managing blood pressure during pregnancy to prevent any long-term complications.