Everything You Need to Know about Hypotension in Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a period in life when women have to take extra care of their health.

They must regularly keep track of their condition to ensure their babies are in excellent shape.

In this regard, blood pressure is one of the most closely monitored parameters during pregnancy.

This vital indicator typically fluctuates due to changes in the woman’s circulatory system.

In the first few weeks, there is a natural tendency for low pressure, which tends to return to normal by week 20.

But how can low blood pressure affect mothers during pregnancy?

The Effects of Low Blood Pressure during Pregnancy

Low blood pressure during pregnancy, or hypotension, is common among mothers-to-be. It may be systolic, diastolic, or both, but it does not designate a disease in contrast to hypertension.

In reality, it typically develops in pregnant women due to the physiological changes that occur during this period.

The latter occurs in the early stages of pregnancy to boost blood flow to the mother’s new organ, the placenta.

This encourages a reduction in the volume of blood returning to the heart, which results in a decrease in diastolic blood pressure.

As the pregnancy progresses, the main abdominal blood veins are compressed.

This phenomenon excels when the woman is upright or lying on her back. Ultimately, hypotension reduces the blood flow back to the heart.

What Are The Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy?

Despite being a physiological aspect of pregnancy, hypotension can cause uncomfortable symptoms in some women.

The average blood pressure levels are one of the variables that affect how intense these are.

Here’s a short list of the most typical clinical signs of pregnancy-related hypotension:

  • Palpitations
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fainting
  • Tiredness

All of these symptoms are generally insignificant. However, their persistence may indicate more severe complications.

A prime example is when the mother faints in public and hits herself. In this regard, the woman’s general health is a decisive factor to consider

For example, a pregnant woman with severe vomiting who doesn’t drink enough water is more likely to become dehydrated and end up in the hospital.

Does Low Blood Pressure Put My Baby’s Health At Risk?

When treated timely, low blood pressure does not pose any risk to the fetus’s health.

However, many experts claim that such a condition is closely related to lower birth weight.

The mother’s blood pressure can also affect how the placenta transmits blood to the fetus.

Logically, an abrupt drop in the parameter could cause health issues for the mother and the unborn child.

How to Avoid Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy

Although hypotension is common among pregnant women, there are ways to avoid its symptoms.

Here are some of the methods to prevent low blood pressure during pregnancy:

Ensure Adequate Hydration

During pregnancy, a woman’s body increases its blood volume to facilitate the transport of blood to the unborn child.

Water makes up the majority of blood, so pregnant women must ensure they get enough daily.

Hydration is essential when sweating, doing physical activities, or frequent vomiting.

Limit Fasting

Along with proper hydration, the mother’s blood carries a sizable portion of the nutrients needed by the baby.

Because of this, it’s crucial to keep a balanced, sufficient diet and avoid fasting for extended periods.

Avoid Extreme Temperatures

High temperatures and low atmospheric pressure favor hypotension. Because of this, it’s crucial to stay hydrated, wear lightweight clothing, and stay in well-ventilated spaces during the prenatal period.

Engage in Regular Exercise

The cardiovascular system adapts better to new conditions through physical activity.

Moreover, simple activities like walking or other light exercises can boost the mother’s mood.

Ultimately, regular exercising can have a positive effect on her symptoms and general health.

Switch Positions Calmly

Sudden movements like jumping out of bed, abruptly leaning over, and standing up can reduce the amount of blood influx to the brain.

Typically, they may result in a brief feeling of dizziness or even make you faint. In such cases, you should refrain from quick position changes.

Lie on Your Left Lateral Decubitus

Experts advise reclining on the left side when you rest to open the major vessels and encourage blood to return to the heart, preventing hypotension.

Final Thoughts

Hypotension is part of the many adaptive changes women face during pregnancy. The maternal body increases its blood volume to aid the baby’s growth.

Although low blood pressure during pregnancy is normal, the symptoms can sometimes be uncomfortable or dangerous.

For this reason, you must discuss them with your doctor to learn about them and find the best way to cope with them.

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