Pregnancy brings various changes to the body, including changes in the circulatory system, which can affect blood pressure readings. Many pregnant women feel concerned when their blood pressure readings change compared to before pregnancy. However, changes in blood pressure during pregnancy do not always indicate a health problem.
Understanding normal blood pressure for pregnant women is crucial because stable blood pressure plays a role in maintaining maternal health and supporting fetal growth and development. By understanding the normal blood pressure range and the signs to watch out for, pregnant women can feel calmer and more aware of potential complications during pregnancy.
What is the normal blood pressure for pregnant women?
In general, normal blood pressure for pregnant women is between 110/70 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg. However, this figure can vary slightly depending on gestational age due to hormonal and circulatory changes.
Blood pressure consists of two numbers, namely:
- Systolic pressure , which is the pressure when the heart pumps blood throughout the body.
- Diastolic pressure , which is the pressure when the heart rests between two beats.
During antenatal care (ANC) visits , your doctor will routinely measure your blood pressure. This test is important to help detect pregnancy complications, such as gestational hypertension or preeclampsia, as early as possible.
In addition to examining blood pressure measurements, the doctor will also consider the mother's overall health, pre-pregnancy blood pressure history, and any underlying medical conditions that may affect the pregnancy.
Normal Blood Pressure Changes in Pregnant Women from the First to the Third Trimester
Hormonal changes during pregnancy cause blood pressure to fluctuate. Here are some common changes that occur during each trimester.
First Trimester
In the first trimester, blood pressure usually begins to decrease due to increased levels of the hormone progesterone, which causes blood vessels to relax.
The normal blood pressure range for pregnant women during this phase is generally around 90/60 mmHg to 110/70 mmHg. As long as the mother doesn't experience any serious symptoms, this is considered normal.
Second Trimester
Entering the second trimester, blood pressure usually reaches its lowest point. The normal range is around 90/60 mmHg to 105/65 mmHg.
Some pregnant women may experience mild dizziness when standing up too quickly due to lower blood pressure. This condition is generally harmless if it occurs only occasionally and is not accompanied by severe symptoms.
Third Trimester
In the third trimester, blood pressure will gradually increase again to approach pre-pregnancy levels, which are around 110/70 mmHg to 120/80 mmHg.
However, blood pressure checks still need to be carried out regularly because the risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia increases at this gestational age.
Why is Normal Blood Pressure Important for Fetal Growth?
Maintaining normal blood pressure in pregnant women is not only important for the mother's health, but also affects the growth and development of the fetus.
Stable blood pressure helps maintain optimal blood flow from the placenta to the fetus. This blood flow provides the fetus with oxygen and various essential nutrients needed for organ formation, tissue growth, and brain development.
Conversely, prolonged blood pressure that is too high or too low can disrupt blood flow to the placenta. Consequently, the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus is suboptimal, potentially increasing the risk of fetal growth retardation.
Therefore, keeping blood pressure within the normal range is an important step to support a healthy pregnancy.
Risks that Can Occur If a Pregnant Woman's Blood Pressure Is Not Controlled
Changes in blood pressure that are too high or too low require attention because they can increase the risk of complications.
High Blood Pressure
Blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg during pregnancy can lead to gestational hypertension or preeclampsia.
This condition can increase the risk of:
- Preeclampsia and eclampsia.
- Impaired maternal organ function, such as the kidneys and liver.
- Fetal growth retardation.
- Premature labor.
- Placental abruption or premature detachment of the placenta.
Consult a doctor immediately if high blood pressure is accompanied by symptoms such as severe headache, blurred vision, heartburn, sudden swelling of the face and hands, or shortness of breath.
Blood Pressure Too Low
Blood pressure <90/60 mmHg during pregnancy can also cause complaints, such as:
- Dizzy.
- The body feels weak.
- Blurred vision.
- Easily faint.
- Increases the risk of falling due to loss of balance.
If low blood pressure occurs continuously to the point that it interferes with activities or is accompanied by decreased consciousness, pregnant women should immediately consult a doctor.
How to Maintain Normal Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
The following simple steps can help maintain normal blood pressure in pregnant women during pregnancy.
1. Eat a balanced, nutritious diet
Meet your daily nutritional needs by consuming vegetables, fruit, lean protein, whole grains, and drinking enough water to maintain good blood circulation.
2. Doing Light Physical Activity
Light exercise, such as walking, prenatal yoga, or pregnancy exercises as recommended by your doctor can help maintain heart health and blood pressure.
3. Managing Stress
Uncontrolled stress can affect your overall well-being. Take time to rest, relax, or seek support from your partner and family.
4. Avoid cigarettes and cigarette smoke
Smoking and exposure to cigarette smoke can increase the risk of blood vessel disorders and complications during pregnancy.
5. Routine Pregnancy Check-ups
Regular pregnancy check-ups help doctors monitor changes in blood pressure early on so that treatment can be administered promptly if abnormalities are found.
When Should Pregnant Women Consult a Doctor?
Changes in blood pressure in pregnant women are part of the body's adaptation process during pregnancy. However, pregnant women should still consult a doctor immediately if they experience the following conditions:
- Blood pressure reaches 140/90 mmHg or more.
- Blood pressure is below 90/60 mmHg accompanied by severe dizziness or fainting.
- Severe headache that doesn't get better.
- Visual disturbances, such as blurred vision or flashes of light.
- Sudden swelling of the face, hands, or feet.
- Decreased fetal movement.
- Shortness of breath or chest pain.
Regular blood pressure monitoring is one of the best ways to maintain the health of both mother and fetus during pregnancy. With regular prenatal checkups, changes in blood pressure can be detected early, allowing the risk of complications to be prevented or managed as early as possible.
This article was written by Dr. Dumaria Situmorang, Sp.OG (Obstetrics and Gynecology Specialist, EMC Cibitung Hospital).