Why BPD is High in Pregnancy

Understanding Blood Pressure During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, your body goes through a multitude of changes to accommodate the growing life within you. One of these changes is an increase in blood volume, which is necessary to support the increased demands of the pregnancy. However, this increase in blood volume can also lead to an increase in blood pressure.

What is BPD?

Blood pressure during pregnancy is measured in two numbers: systolic and diastolic. Systolic blood pressure is the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats, while diastolic blood pressure is the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats. BPD, or borderline blood pressure during pregnancy, is defined as having a systolic blood pressure between 130 and 139 mmHg or a diastolic blood pressure between 80 and 89 mmHg.

Why is BPD High in Pregnancy?

There are several reasons why BPD is common during pregnancy. These include:

• Increased Blood Volume: As mentioned earlier, blood volume increases during pregnancy to meet the needs of the growing fetus and placenta. This increase in blood volume can put extra pressure on your blood vessels, leading to an increase in blood pressure.


• Changes in Blood Vessels: During pregnancy, the walls of your blood vessels relax to allow more blood to flow through. This relaxation can also contribute to lowered blood pressure.


• Hormonal Changes: The hormonal changes of pregnancy can also affect blood pressure. For example, progesterone, a hormone that helps to relax the muscles of the uterus, can also relax the blood vessels, leading to lower blood pressure.

Risks of BPD During Pregnancy

BPD during pregnancy can increase your risk of developing several complications, including:

• Gestational Hypertension: This is a condition in which blood pressure rises after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Gestational hypertension can increase your risk of developing preeclampsia, a more serious condition.


• Preeclampsia: This is a condition in which high blood pressure is accompanied by protein in the urine. Preeclampsia can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the baby, including seizures, stroke, and kidney failure.


• Placental Abruption: This is a condition in which the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus before the baby is born. Placental abruption can cause bleeding, pain, and preterm labor.


• Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR): This is a condition in which the baby does not grow as much as expected during pregnancy. IUGR can lead to premature birth and other health problems for the baby.

Managing BPD During Pregnancy

If you are diagnosed with BPD during pregnancy, your doctor will work with you to monitor your blood pressure and take steps to manage it. These steps may include:

• Lifestyle Changes: You may be advised to make certain lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and limiting salt intake.


• Medication: If lifestyle changes are not enough to control your blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication to lower your blood pressure.


• Hospitalization: In some cases, if your blood pressure is very high, you may need to be hospitalized for monitoring and treatment.

Conclusion

BPD during pregnancy is a common condition that can increase your risk of developing several complications. However, with proper management, most women with BPD can have a healthy pregnancy and delivery. If you are pregnant and have BPD, it is essential to work closely with your doctor to monitor your blood pressure and take steps to manage it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What causes BPD during pregnancy?

A: BPD during pregnancy is caused by several factors, including increased blood volume, changes in blood vessels, and hormonal changes.

Q: What are the risks of BPD during pregnancy?

A: BPD during pregnancy can increase the risk of developing gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, placental abruption, and intrauterine growth restriction.

Q: How is BPD diagnosed during pregnancy?

A: BPD is diagnosed during pregnancy by measuring blood pressure at regular prenatal checkups.

Q: How is BPD treated during pregnancy?

A: Treatment for BPD during pregnancy may include lifestyle changes, medication, and hospitalization in severe cases.

Q: Can BPD during pregnancy be prevented?

A: There is no sure way to prevent BPD during pregnancy, but making healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and limiting salt intake, may help to reduce the risk.