Let me share a story with you. My sister, Maya, who was 35 and pregnant with her first child, had us all thrilled. As I was about to become an aunt for the third time, she was in her third trimester, looking radiant as she sang and danced at a memorial concert. I was amazed at her energy, but then I noticed that her feet were swollen. I urged her to talk to her doctor straight away. Just three days later, she received a call asking her to check into the hospital, six days before her due date. It turns out she had submitted a urine sample just the day before the concert, and the results showed she had preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy-related high blood pressure condition that required immediate delivery. Thankfully, baby Jordan arrived safely, and Maya, a strong and knowledgeable African American woman, came through just fine. But it’s important to recognize that not all stories end as happily.
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) include several conditions that lead to high blood pressure during pregnancy. High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when blood exerts too much force against artery walls, damaging them and increasing risks for heart attacks, strokes, and other severe health issues. HDP stands as a leading cause of maternal mortality, presenting significant risks to both mother and child.
Types of Hypertensive Disorders
There are four primary types of hypertensive disorders:
- Chronic Hypertension: High blood pressure present before pregnancy or before 20 weeks of gestation, or lasting more than 12 weeks postpartum.
- Gestational Hypertension: High blood pressure that arises after 20 weeks without signs of organ damage or protein in the urine.
- Preeclampsia: High blood pressure developing after 20 weeks, accompanied by organ damage or protein in the urine.
- Preeclampsia Superimposed on Chronic Hypertension: Chronic hypertension that becomes worse during pregnancy, causing organ damage or protein in the urine.
In the U.S., chronic hypertension affects around 85,000 births annually, but the incidence of HDP is on the rise, particularly among Black women. Data from the CDC indicates that HDP affected over 1 in 7 hospital deliveries between 2017 and 2019, with Black women experiencing disproportionately higher rates of severe outcomes.
While the reasons behind these disparities are not entirely clear, some known risk factors include obesity, diabetes, kidney issues, family history, multiple pregnancies, and older maternal age (over 35). Alarmingly, more than 50% of Black women experience high blood pressure, compared to 39% of non-Hispanic white women.
Recognizing Symptoms and Taking Action
Recognizing the symptoms is crucial—headaches, swelling, blurred vision, stomach pain, and reduced urine output can all indicate HDP. The good news is that with proper care, these disorders can be managed and even prevented. Pregnant women can take steps like early and regular prenatal care, adhering to prescribed blood pressure medications, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and monitoring blood pressure at home.
For more insights on managing lifestyle during pregnancy, check out our blog on seasonal treats like chocolate hazelnut lattes. And if you’re looking for reliable information on artificial insemination, consider visiting Make a Mom for expert advice. Additionally, ACOG offers valuable resources for those navigating pregnancy and infertility.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it’s vital to prioritize your health and seek help when needed. By taking proactive steps, you can ensure the best outcomes for both you and your baby.