24 weeks and high blood pressure – Midwives Lelystad

High blood pressure during pregnancy: everything you need to know

As midwives, it is our job to inform you well about various aspects of your pregnancy, including the possibility of developing high blood pressure. It is important to emphasize that not everyone develops high blood pressure during pregnancy. This article is intended to raise awareness, not cause unnecessary concern.

The importance of monitoring high blood pressure

Monitoring your blood pressure is an important part of your care during your pregnancy. We do this because in some cases blood pressure can increase as the pregnancy progresses. Normal blood pressure is around 120/80, but an increase to 135/90 is considered too high. Especially if you had lower blood pressure before pregnancy, even slightly increased blood pressure can be abnormal.

Professional care is crucial

It is essential that you do not measure your blood pressure yourself or have it measured by anyone who is not specialized in pregnancy care, not even by a family member or friend who is a nurse. We are specially trained to provide care surrounding your pregnancy and the baby. If you have any concerns about your blood pressure, please contact us immediately so that we can guide you professionally and refer you to the hospital if necessary.

Possible consequences of high blood pressure

High blood pressure during pregnancy can have various consequences. It can affect the blood flow to the placenta, which in turn can affect the supply of nutrition and oxygen to your baby. It can lead to various health problems for you.

Symptoms to keep an eye on

Do you recognize two or more of the following symptoms? Please contact us directly:

• Headache
• Yield
• Blurred vision or seeing stars
• Pain in the upper abdomen
• Fluid retention in hands, ankles or face
• Pain between your shoulder blades

High blood pressure and pre-eclampsia

Causes and risks:

• Pre-existing hypertension: Women who already had high blood pressure before pregnancy are at increased risk of complications.
• Gestational hypertension: Some women only develop high blood pressure during pregnancy, which can lead to pregnancy complications.

Symptoms and monitoring:

High blood pressure can often occur without symptoms, which is why regular checks are important. Symptoms such as headache, visual changes and swelling may manifest in severe cases.

Therapy:

Women with high blood pressure are often closely monitored by their midwife or doctor. In some cases, medication may be necessary to regulate blood pressure and reduce possible complications.

Preeclampsia (Preeclampsia and Eclampsia)

Preeclampsia is a serious complication that can develop in pregnant women, usually after the 20th week of pregnancy. It includes preeclampsia and eclampsia.

Preeclampsia:

• Characteristics: High blood pressure, protein in the urine and possible damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys.
• Symptoms: Headache, visual disturbances, abdominal pain and swelling, especially in the face and hands.

Eclampsia:

• Characteristics: Serious complication of preeclampsia, characterized by seizures.
• Symptoms: Convulsions, unconsciousness and potentially life-threatening situations.

Therapy:

• Pregnant women with preeclampsia are carefully observed for possible progression to eclampsia.
• Premature delivery may be necessary to protect the lives of both mother and baby.

Important points to consider after childbirth

Even after giving birth, it is important to remain alert to symptoms of high blood pressure. If you recognize these complaints, immediately inform maternity care and us as your midwives.

Advice for high blood pressure

Get plenty of rest and do some light exercise. If possible, try to sleep on your left side for optimal blood flow to the placenta.

Fellow sufferers

Have you experienced preeclampsia and would you like to talk about this with fellow sufferers? Then view the Foundation's website HELLP.

Conclusion

Remember, this information is intended to educate you, not to alarm you. Not everyone develops high blood pressure during pregnancy. If you have any doubts or concerns, we, your midwives, are always ready to support you.