By Brittany Berens, DO, Obstetrics & Gynecology
OB Hospitalist, Blanchard Valley Hospital
Hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP) account for 32% of maternal deaths in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). One in seven hospital deliveries may be affected by this complication of pregnancy. What are these disorders? How are they managed during and after pregnancy? Can a person do anything before becoming pregnant to decrease their risk factors?
First, let’s examine what is considered high blood pressure. Normal blood pressure is less than 120/80. High blood pressure is greater than 140/90.
There are different types of HDP. Chronic hypertension is a diagnosis of hypertension that is present before the person becomes pregnant. It can also be diagnosed if elevated blood pressures are found before 20 weeks of gestational age. Gestational hypertension is the diagnosis of hypertension that is made after 20 weeks of gestational age.
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