During pregnancy, low blood pressure is not uncommon. Low blood pressure can be caused by fluctuating hormones and alterations in blood circulation throughout pregnancy, particularly during the first and second trimesters.
Blood pressure is usually maintained at a healthy level throughout pregnancy. Low blood pressure is rarely dangerous during pregnancy, and it can be treated at home. However, excessively low blood pressure is a problem, and certain pregnant women are annoyed by the associated symptoms. This post explores the origins and treatments of low blood pressure throughout pregnancy, as well as when you should see a doctor.
What Is Normal Blood Pressure in Pregnancy?
Normal blood pressure in pregnancy is a sign of maternal and fetal health. Doctors use blood pressure readings to diagnose expectant mothers' underlying problems and possible complications.
According to the American Heart Association, normal blood pressure is less than 120/80 mmHg. 120 mm Hg (mmHg) is the systolic pressure (when your heart contracts), which is always the upper number on the device. 80 mm Hg is the diastolic pressure (when your heart rests between beats) and is the lower number on the device.
Numbers below this value are a sign of low blood pressure but are standard in many people. So, a number above these can be considered normal blood pressure in pregnancy.
A physician diagnoses hypotension when the sphygmomanometer is around 90 over 60 (90/60 mmHg).
During the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, pregnant women may have low blood pressure. Blood pressure is typically decreased throughout the first and second trimesters and rises again during the third trimester. After delivery, physicians frequently check blood pressure to look for typical postpartum issues.
Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure during Pregnancy
Watch for the following symptoms of low blood pressure while pregnant. However, they can vary but generally include:
• Vertigo
• Fatigue
• Transient loss of consciousness (TLoC)
• Visual impairment (blurred sight or diplopia)
• Shortness of breath
• Constant thirst even after drinking water
Does Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy Harm your Fetus?
There is not much information about the effects of low blood pressure on the fetus compared to high blood pressure. Low blood pressure in pregnancy has been linked to stillbirth or low birth weight in numerous studies, but proving this is difficult because a number of other factors and risk elements must be taken into account. In many situations, low blood pressure is not an issue.
Risks and Effects of Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy on the Fetus
Some studies have shown that low blood pressure in pregnancy can lead to problems such as fetal death and low birth weight.
Passing out and falling to the ground are two of the most common problems for pregnant women with low blood pressure. Some women with low blood pressure who get up quickly after sitting or resting for a long time face the danger of fainting and falling.
Frequent fainting and weakness are especially dangerous during pregnancy. When fainting, a woman may be harmed physically. In addition, circulatory disorders can cause internal problems for them.
A severe drop in blood pressure can lead to shock or even limb damage. Insufficient blood may also affect the fetus. Low blood pressure in pregnant women can cause brain damage to the fetus and, in rare cases, may also lead to premature childbirth.
Diagnosis of Low Blood Pressure in Pregnant Women
A simple test for low blood pressure can be done at home. Your doctor or nurse will place a cuff pressure gauge or cuff manometer around your arm and use a gauge to measure your blood pressure during the test.
You can do this test in your doctor's office, but you can also buy yourself a sphygmomanometer and use it at home. If your blood pressure is low throughout your pregnancy, your doctor may order more tests to evaluate the risk of developing any other conditions.
Treatment of Low Blood Pressure in Pregnancy
You do not need to treat high/low blood pressure during pregnancy. Unless the symptoms are severe or there is a great danger of additional problems arising, doctors do not usually prescribe any medications for low blood pressure in pregnant women.
Don’t worry; your blood pressure rises spontaneously in the third trimester.
No special treatment is needed for low blood pressure during pregnancy, as blood pressure returns to normal after the third trimester.
Medication for Low Blood Pressure in Pregnancy
In rare cases, many medications depend on the nature or course of pregnancy to treat the underlying causes of low blood pressure, including medicines for increasing hormone levels and anemia. Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) is effective in eliminating anemia and complete regeneration of red blood cells.
Home Treatments for Low Blood Pressure in Pregnancy
There are countless home remedies for low blood pressure for pregnant women, some of which are presented below.
Healthy Diet
A healthy and nutritious diet effectively regulates constant blood pressure in pregnant women. Consuming fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins and minerals can prevent low blood pressure. Other factors controlling low blood pressure in pregnancy include splitting meals into smaller ones at regular intervals instead of eating heavy meals at once.
Exercising
Exercise can have a tremendous effect on rising low blood pressure. However, some patients experience dizziness and fatigue when exercising. Consult your doctor before starting any serious exercise during pregnancy.
Adequate Rest and Breath-control
Pregnant women and their caregivers should be aware of this condition and know how blood pressure can change abruptly during pregnancy. Therefore, pregnant women should not make sudden and rapid movements after lying down, sleeping, or sitting for a long time.
Lying down and resting always helps regulate your heart rate. Sleeping on the left side and wearing loose clothing are also helpful.
Drinking Adequate Water
Dehydration plays a crucial role in lowering blood pressure. Consumption of green tea and other healthy fluids during pregnancy can help relieve symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.
Postpartum Blood Pressure
Your postpartum blood pressure should return to its previous level. Health professionals often check your blood pressure hours and days after delivery. Your doctor will also probably measure your blood pressure when you go to the office for a postpartum check-up.
Conclusion
Low blood pressure during pregnancy is normal. The condition is usually not problematic unless you have symptoms. See your doctor if you experience severe symptoms of low blood pressure, especially when you have frequent dizziness and fainting.
Every pregnant lady with fainting or dizziness and other symptoms such as a severe headache, blurred vision, or shortness of breath should visit a doctor. Hypotension is indicated by chest pain and numbness or weakness on one side of the body. Urgent care is necessitated by hypotension, which is defined as a low blood pressure reading of less than 90/60 mmHg.