Gestational hypertension and preeclampsia are serious health complications that some women face during pregnancy. According to recent statistics, approximately 5-8% of pregnancies in the United States can be affected by gestational hypertension, while preeclampsia occurs in 2-8% of pregnancies. These numbers may seem small, but the risks associated with these conditions are significant, including premature births, low birth weights, and even maternal and infant mortality.
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Recognizing the importance of early detection, the US Preventive Services Task Force has recommended screening for disorders such as gestational hypertension and preeclampsia for all pregnant individuals. Monitoring blood pressure throughout pregnancy is crucial, even for those without a known diagnosis of a hypertensive disorder. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, including chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and eclampsia, can have serious implications for both the mother and the baby.
Preeclampsia, which typically develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy, can affect multiple organs in the body and may lead to seizures and stroke. The US has been facing a maternal health crisis, with high rates of maternal deaths and complications related to hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. In order to address this crisis, the task force emphasizes the importance of blood pressure monitoring during prenatal visits as a screening tool.
By closely monitoring blood pressure, healthcare providers can identify and treat hypertensive disorders, reducing the risk of undiagnosed or untreated conditions. This recommendation provides a definitive treatment plan for healthcare practitioners and highlights the effectiveness of regular blood pressure measurements during pregnancy.
Data from studies conducted between 2014 and 2022 supports the task force’s conclusion. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy contribute to maternal mortality, pregnancy-related morbidity, and risks to the fetus, including inadequate growth and preterm delivery. The prevalence of these disorders is increasing in the United States, with at least 1 in 7 hospital deliveries affected between 2017 and 2019.
Certain populations, including older women, Black women, and American Indian and Alaska Native women, are at higher risk of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. Communities of color face greater challenges in accessing healthcare, which contributes to the disparities in their risk. Social determinants of health, such as income, housing, and access to healthy food and transportation, play a significant role in maternal and infant outcomes.
In addition to medical interventions, adopting a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can help manage high blood pressure during pregnancy. Certain blood pressure medications are considered safe for use during pregnancy, but it is important to consult with a healthcare provider.
The task force did not provide a recommendation on blood pressure monitoring after pregnancy, focusing solely on the screening and management of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy.
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