Hypertension In Pregnancy-A Risk Factor
- Jun 27, 2016
- 2 min read
A recent study has reported that even a slight elevation in blood pressure during pregnancy puts a woman health at risk later in life.
The study focused on pre-hypertension. Pre-hypertension is defined as a blood pressure of 120-139/80-89, where as, hypertension in pregnancy is defined as 140/90 and over.
The study reported that these women were at greater risk of developing Metabolic Syndrome, metabolic syndrome is defined as having three or more of the following:
Obesity- Waist circumference of 40 or over
High blood pressure- 130/85 or high
High cholesterol (low good cholesterol)
High blood sugar(fasting)
High triglycerides
Participants were 507 Chinese women with:
-Uncomplicated pregnancies
-No history of hypertension
-Normal blood sugar
-Normal cholesterol.
Each participant had their blood pressure checked seven or more times during pregnancy. They had blood sugar and blood cholesterol tests done:
At the beginning of the study(when they entered).
Shortly before giving birth
Shortly after giving birth
Every few months for 1.6 years after giving birth
Researchers found that the women with pre-hypertension in pregnancy have a 6.5% greater risk of developing metabolic syndrome after delivery than women whose blood pressure is normal. This puts a woman at risk for cardiovascular disease later in life.
Women who are planning on starting a family would do well to self care in preparation for a healthy pregnancy.
There are Self Care habits that once developed will reduce the possibility of developing metabolic syndrome. Fortunately these habits will eliminate other risk factors and prevent chronic diseases. These women will be protecting their health throughout the lifespan.
The result of this study is sending a message that developing healthy habits early in life pays off.
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