How can you lower blood pressure naturally during pregnancy?

High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, typically doesn't cause noticeable symptoms, yet it can pose significant risks during pregnancy. Your midwife will monitor your blood pressure at each antenatal visit. If you have a prior history of hypertension and are expecting, you'll be directed to a specialist in hypertension and pregnancy to evaluate the potential benefits and risks of treatment. Should you experience high blood pressure for the first time during pregnancy, you'll undergo an assessment at a hospital by a healthcare provider, often a trained midwife, to address the elevated blood pressure.

What causes blood pressure to rise during pregnancy?

Pregnant women face an elevated risk of hypertension, with up to eight percent affected, as reported by the CDC and the American Pregnancy Association. This figure is on the rise. Various forms of high blood pressure can manifest during pregnancy, such as gestational hypertension emerging at twenty weeks, chronic hypertension predating pregnancy or arising at twenty weeks, and chronic hypertension combined with superimposed preeclampsia in women with pre-existing high blood pressure. Preeclampsia, another complication, stems from high blood pressure and organ system damage. This heightened blood pressure places added strain on the heart and kidneys, increasing the risk of heart and kidney disease as well as stroke. Additionally, it heightens the likelihood of complications like preterm delivery, placental abruption, and fetal growth restriction. Consequently, it's crucial to closely monitor blood pressure throughout pregnancy.

Causes of Elevated Blood Pressure During Pregnancy

Firstly, preexisting conditions and a family history of high blood pressure during pregnancy contribute to this condition.

1. Factors such as obesity or being overweight can increase the likelihood of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy.

2. Leading a sedentary or inactive lifestyle is another factor that can contribute to elevated blood pressure during pregnancy.

3. Experiencing a first-time pregnancy can also elevate the risk of developing high blood pressure.

4. Carrying multiples, such as twins or triplets, can further increase the likelihood of high blood pressure during pregnancy.

5. Women aged 35 or older are also at a higher risk of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy.

6. Engaging in habits like smoking and drinking alcohol can significantly elevate blood pressure levels during pregnancy.

7. Having a personal or family history of high blood pressure during pregnancy is an additional factor that can contribute to elevated blood pressure.

8. Preexisting conditions like diabetes and autoimmune disorders can also increase the risk of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy.

What are the risks associated with high blood pressure during pregnancy?

Unmanaged or even well-controlled chronic high blood pressure can elevate the risk of various complications. These may include having a baby smaller than expected due to reduced blood flow through the placenta, premature birth, respiratory issues before or during labor, placental abruption, and preeclampsia. However, if your condition is well-managed, these risks can be mitigated.

Here are the top strategies for reducing high blood pressure during pregnancy. Prioritize your health by seeking a second opinion and making informed decisions.

1. Steer Clear of Salt and High-Sodium Foods: Cutting back on salt can lower blood pressure and prevent it from rising. During pregnancy, limit salt intake by avoiding excessive salt in cooking. Instead, use herbs and spices for flavoring. Steer clear of processed foods, fast food, and sports drinks, as they often contain high sodium levels. Canned foods should also be avoided due to their high sodium content.                               2.  Embrace Walking and Stay Active: Regular exercise, particularly walking, is beneficial for managing blood pressure during pregnancy. Aim for a brisk walk of 30 to 45 minutes daily, as it is a safe cardiovascular exercise throughout pregnancy.

3. Practice Controlled Breathing: Deep breathing serves as an effective relaxation technique, capable of reducing stress levels and stabilizing blood pressure. To practice, lie comfortably on your back and inhale slowly through your nose, then exhale through your mouth while keeping your abdominal muscles tight. Aim to repeat this process 10 times, allocating 10 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day for optimal results.

4. Listen to Music: Listening to soft, soothing music for at least 30 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day, can effectively lower blood pressure and alleviate stress and anxiety during pregnancy. To enhance relaxation, choose low-tempo, low-pitch music without lyrics or loud instrumentation.

5. Incorporate Potassium-Rich Foods into Your Diet: Incorporating potassium-rich foods like sweet potatoes, tomatoes, bananas, and peas into your diet can help regulate blood pressure. Aim for moderate potassium levels of around 2,000 to 4,000 mg per day to maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.

6. Keep Track of Your Weight: To effectively manage weight gain during pregnancy, adhere to a healthy diet and exercise regimen. Excessive weight gain heightens the risk of hypertension and complications such as preeclampsia. Seek guidance from your doctor to ensure you maintain a healthy weight throughout pregnancy.

Additional Tips:

·        Attend regular prenatal medical appointments and follow your doctor's instructions closely.

·        Take prescribed medication for blood pressure management as directed by your doctor.

·        Consider low-dose aspirin if advised by your doctor to prevent preeclampsia.

·        Avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and consuming caffeine during pregnancy, as they can negatively impact both maternal and fetal health.