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Find out if you have Gestational Hypertension

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Gestational Hypertension. It's quick, free, and you’ll get your confidential results instantly.

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1st, 2nd, 3rd Trimester

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Severe Morning Sickness Test

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Prenatal Anxiety Test

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Prenatal Depression Test

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Gestational Diabetes Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Gestational Diabetes.

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Pelvic Girdle Pain Test

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Prenatal Sleep Disorder Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Prenatal Sleep Disorder.

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Postpartum Infections Test

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Postpartum Thyroiditis Test

This test reports on a postpartum mother's risk for Postpartum Thyroiditis.

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Breast Infection Test

This test reports on a new or expectant mother's risk for Breast Infection (also known as Mastitis).

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Postpartum Anxiety Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Anxiety.

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Postpartum Depression Test

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Postpartum Sleep Disorder Test

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Diastasis Recti Test

This test reports on a new mother's risk for Diastasis Recti.

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2nd, 3rd Trimester

Preeclampsia Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Preeclampsia.

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Postpartum Preeclampsia Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Preeclampsia.

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Postpartum Trauma Test

This test reports on an new mother's risk for Postpartum Trauma.

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2nd, 3rd Trimester

Obstetric Cholestasis Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Obstetric Cholestasis.

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Deep Vein Thrombosis Test

This test reports on an expectant mother's risk for Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).

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Postpartum Cardiomyopathy Test

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Pregnancy-related OCD Test

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Postpartum Psychosis Test

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Symptoms & Causes

Gestational hypertension, also known as pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH), is a condition characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy. Understanding the symptoms and causes of gestational hypertension is important for early detection and management to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby.

Symptoms

Gestational hypertension may not always present noticeable symptoms, but it can lead to complications if left untreated. Symptoms may include:

  • Elevated Blood Pressure: Blood pressure readings consistently above 140/90 mm Hg, measured on two separate occasions at least four hours apart, after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
  • Swelling: Edema, particularly in the hands and face, although swelling is common during pregnancy and may not always indicate hypertension.
  • Proteinuria: Presence of protein in the urine, detected through a urine test, which may indicate kidney involvement and preeclampsia, a severe form of gestational hypertension.
  • Headaches: Persistent or severe headaches that do not improve with rest or hydration, although headaches can have various causes during pregnancy.
  • Visual Changes: Blurred vision, spots or flashes of light, or other visual disturbances, which may indicate complications such as preeclampsia.
  • Abdominal Pain: Severe pain in the upper abdomen, under the ribs, which may be a sign of liver involvement in severe cases of gestational hypertension.
  • Nausea or Vomiting: Nausea, vomiting, or gastrointestinal symptoms, although these are nonspecific and can occur in many pregnancies.
  • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, especially when lying down, which may be a sign of fluid buildup in the lungs (pulmonary edema).
  • Reduced Fetal Movement: Decreased fetal movements or kick counts, which may indicate fetal distress or compromised blood flow to the placenta.

Causes

The exact causes of gestational hypertension are not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development, including:

  • Placental Factors: Dysfunction of the placenta, such as inadequate blood flow or abnormal development, may contribute to the development of gestational hypertension.
  • Endothelial Dysfunction: Impaired function of the endothelial cells lining blood vessels, leading to vasoconstriction and increased blood pressure.
  • Genetic Factors: Genetic predisposition or family history of hypertension or preeclampsia may increase the risk of developing gestational hypertension.
  • Maternal Factors: Underlying maternal conditions such as obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, or autoimmune disorders may predispose women to gestational hypertension.
  • First Pregnancy: Gestational hypertension is more common in first pregnancies, possibly due to maternal adaptation to the physiological changes of pregnancy.
  • Age: Women under 20 or over 40 years of age are at increased risk of developing gestational hypertension.
  • Multiple Gestation: Carrying twins or higher-order multiples increases the risk of gestational hypertension due to the increased demands on the maternal cardiovascular system.
  • Assisted Reproductive Technologies: Women who conceive through assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), may have a higher risk of gestational hypertension.

Gestational hypertension is a common pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure after 20 weeks of gestation. Recognizing the symptoms and understanding the causes are important for early detection and appropriate management to reduce the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby.

Diagnosis & Treatment

Gestational hypertension, characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy, requires careful monitoring and management to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. Proper diagnosis and treatment are essential for minimizing the risk of complications.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of gestational hypertension involves:

  • Blood Pressure Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood pressure readings, with measurements taken at prenatal appointments using a sphygmomanometer or automated blood pressure monitor.
  • Diagnostic Criteria: Diagnosis is based on blood pressure readings consistently above 140/90 mm Hg, measured on two separate occasions at least four hours apart, after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
  • Urine Tests: Urinalysis to detect proteinuria (presence of protein in the urine), which may indicate kidney involvement and preeclampsia, a severe form of gestational hypertension.
  • Monitoring Symptoms: Assessment of symptoms such as headaches, visual disturbances, abdominal pain, or swelling, which may indicate complications or progression to preeclampsia.
  • Fetal Monitoring: Regular fetal assessment through methods such as fetal movement counts, nonstress tests, or ultrasound to monitor fetal well-being and detect signs of fetal distress.
  • Additional Tests: Additional tests may be performed to assess maternal and fetal health, including blood tests to evaluate kidney and liver function, blood clotting parameters, and fetal growth.

Treatment

Treatment of gestational hypertension focuses on managing blood pressure and reducing the risk of complications. Depending on the severity of the condition and the presence of symptoms, treatment options may include:

Lifestyle Modifications:

  • Rest: Adequate rest and avoiding excessive physical activity can help reduce blood pressure and promote maternal well-being.
  • Dietary Changes: Following a balanced diet low in sodium and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help manage blood pressure levels.
  • Monitoring Fluid Intake: Avoiding excessive fluid intake and limiting caffeine and alcohol consumption can help regulate blood pressure.
  • Regular Prenatal Care: Attending regular prenatal appointments for monitoring blood pressure, fetal growth, and maternal well-being is essential for managing gestational hypertension.

Medical Interventions:

  • Antihypertensive Medications: In cases of severe gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, antihypertensive medications may be prescribed to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications.
  • Delivery: Delivery of the baby may be recommended if gestational hypertension is severe or if complications such as preeclampsia develop, particularly after 37 weeks of gestation.
  • Monitoring and Surveillance: Close monitoring of maternal and fetal well-being, including blood pressure, urine tests, fetal heart rate monitoring, and ultrasound, to detect any signs of worsening hypertension or fetal distress.
  • Hospitalization: Hospitalization may be necessary for close observation and management of severe gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, particularly if complications develop.

The diagnosis and treatment of gestational hypertension requires close monitoring of blood pressure and symptoms to ensure timely intervention and minimize the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby. Collaborative care between healthcare providers and regular prenatal appointments are essential for optimizing maternal and fetal outcomes.

When to Seek Treatment

Gestational hypertension, characterized by high blood pressure during pregnancy, requires careful monitoring and management to ensure the health and well-being of both the mother and the baby. Knowing when to seek treatment for suspected gestational hypertension is essential for early intervention and minimizing the risk of complications.

It's important for pregnant women to seek treatment for suspected gestational hypertension if they experience:

  • Elevated Blood Pressure: Blood pressure readings consistently above 140/90 mm Hg, measured on two separate occasions at least four hours apart, after 20 weeks of pregnancy.
  • Symptoms of Complications: Symptoms such as headaches, visual disturbances, abdominal pain, or swelling, which may indicate complications such as preeclampsia, a severe form of gestational hypertension.
  • Proteinuria: Presence of protein in the urine, detected through a urine test, which may indicate kidney involvement and preeclampsia.
  • Reduced Fetal Movement: Decreased fetal movements or kick counts, which may indicate fetal distress or compromised blood flow to the placenta.
  • Concerns About Blood Pressure: Feeling anxious or concerned about elevated blood pressure readings or other symptoms of gestational hypertension.
  • History of Hypertension: Women with a history of hypertension or risk factors for gestational hypertension should be particularly vigilant and seek prompt medical evaluation.
  • Medical Advice: If a healthcare provider recommends evaluation or treatment for suspected gestational hypertension based on prenatal assessments or monitoring.

Importance of Timely Treatment

Seeking timely treatment for suspected gestational hypertension is crucial for several reasons:

  • Preventing Complications: Early intervention can help prevent the progression to severe hypertension or preeclampsia and reduce the risk of complications for both the mother and the baby.
  • Optimizing Maternal and Fetal Health: Proper management of gestational hypertension supports maternal cardiovascular health and fetal growth and development, promoting a healthier pregnancy outcome.
  • Monitoring and Surveillance: Close monitoring of blood pressure and symptoms allows for timely detection of any changes or complications, enabling appropriate intervention and management.
  • Reducing Stress and Anxiety: Prompt evaluation and treatment can help alleviate anxiety and concerns about hypertension during pregnancy, promoting maternal well-being and peace of mind.
  • Collaborative Care: Collaborative care between healthcare providers and regular prenatal appointments are essential for optimizing maternal and fetal outcomes and ensuring comprehensive management of gestational hypertension.

Pregnant women experiencing symptoms of gestational hypertension or concerns about elevated blood pressure should seek medical evaluation and treatment promptly. Early intervention is key to managing gestational hypertension effectively and ensuring a healthier pregnancy experience for both the mother and the baby.