How To Reduce Bp In Pregnancy?
Learn safe and effective ways to manage high blood pressure during pregnancy. Understand lifestyle adjustments and when to seek medical advice for maternal and fetal well-being.
Written by Dr.Sonia Bhatt
Last updated on 3rd Jul, 2025
Introduction
Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it can also bring certain health challenges, one of which is high blood pressure (BP). High BP during pregnancy, also known as gestational hypertension, can be concerning for both the mother and the baby. If left unmanaged, it may lead to complications like preeclampsia or preterm birth. The good news is that with the right care and lifestyle adjustments, you can keep your BP under control.
Understanding High BP During Pregnancy
Blood pressure measures the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. During pregnancy, your body undergoes many changes, including increased blood volume, which can sometimes lead to elevated BP. High BP is generally defined as a reading of 140/90 mmHg or higher.
Types of High BP in Pregnancy
Chronic Hypertension: This refers to high blood pressure that was present before the pregnancy began or developed within the first 20 weeks of gestation.
Gestational Hypertension: This is high blood pressure that starts after the 20th week of pregnancy and typically resolves after the baby is born.
Preeclampsia: A more severe condition characterized by high blood pressure along with signs of damage to other organ systems, often indicated by protein in the urine.
Symptoms of High BP in Pregnancy
Some women may not experience any symptoms, while others may notice:
Severe headaches: Persistent and intense headaches can be a sign of elevated blood pressure or even a complication like preeclampsia, requiring medical attention.
Blurred vision or light sensitivity: Changes in vision can indicate severely high blood pressure affecting the brain or be a symptom of preeclampsia.
Swelling in hands, feet, or face: Sudden or excessive swelling, especially in these areas, is a key indicator of preeclampsia and needs prompt medical evaluation.
Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing can be a sign of fluid buildup due to high blood pressure or a complication like preeclampsia affecting the lungs.
Upper abdominal pain: Pain in the upper abdomen can be a symptom of preeclampsia affecting the liver and necessitates immediate medical assessment.
Nausea or vomiting: While common in early pregnancy, nausea and vomiting that develop later or are severe can sometimes be associated with high blood pressure or preeclampsia.
If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your doctor immediately.
Consult Top Gynaecologists
Causes & Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to high BP during pregnancy, such as:
First-time pregnancy: The body's initial physiological adjustments to pregnancy can sometimes trigger elevated blood pressure.
Family history: A genetic predisposition increases the likelihood of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy if close relatives experienced it.
Age: Women who are either older than 35 or younger than 20 have a higher statistical risk of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy.
Multiple pregnancies: Carrying twins or triplets puts increased strain on the cardiovascular system, elevating the risk of high blood pressure.
Obesity or pre-existing conditions: Being overweight or having pre-existing conditions like diabetes or kidney disease can significantly increase the chances of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy.
How to Reduce BP Naturally During Pregnancy
Managing BP during pregnancy involves a combination of diet, lifestyle changes, and medical supervision. Here are some effective ways to keep it under control:
Adopt a Balanced, Low-Sodium Diet: Reduce salt intake by avoiding processed foods and increase potassium-rich foods like bananas and spinach; focus on fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting caffeine.
Stay Well-Hydrated: Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily to maintain healthy blood volume and prevent dehydration, which can impact blood pressure.
Engage in Regular, Doctor-Approved Exercise: Gentle activities such as walking, prenatal yoga, or swimming can improve circulation and reduce stress; avoid strenuous exercise without medical clearance.
Prioritize Stress Management: Practice deep breathing, meditation, or enjoy calming music to mitigate stress, which can elevate blood pressure during pregnancy.
Ensure Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of rest, ideally sleeping on your left side to optimize blood flow, as poor sleep can contribute to high BP.
Monitor Blood Pressure Regularly: Use a reliable home monitor to track your BP and share these readings with your healthcare provider for informed management.
Abstain from Alcohol and Smoking: Both substances can raise blood pressure and are harmful to your baby; seek medical advice if you need help quitting.
Adhere to Prescribed Medications: If your doctor recommends blood pressure medication safe for pregnancy, strictly follow their guidance and never self-medicate.
When to Seek Medical Help?
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:
Severe headaches or dizziness: These can be signs of worsening high blood pressure or even preeclampsia, indicating a need for immediate medical attention.
Sudden swelling in hands/face: Rapid onset of swelling, especially in these areas, is a key symptom of preeclampsia and requires urgent evaluation.
Blurred vision: Changes in vision can be a serious sign related to high blood pressure affecting the brain or indicating preeclampsia.
Difficulty breathing: Shortness of breath could signal fluid buildup in the lungs, a severe complication of high blood pressure or preeclampsia.
Severe abdominal pain: Upper abdominal pain can be a symptom of preeclampsia affecting the liver and requires immediate medical assessment.
Can High BP Harm My Baby?
If uncontrolled, high BP can:
Uncontrolled high BP can reduce blood flow to the placenta, limiting the oxygen and nutrients your baby receives, which can hinder their growth.
Elevated blood pressure increases the risk of preterm birth, meaning your baby may be born before their organs are fully developed.
High BP can lead to preeclampsia, a dangerous condition for both you and your baby, potentially causing organ damage and other severe complications.
However, with proper care, most women with high BP have healthy pregnancies.
Conclusion
High BP during pregnancy is manageable with the right approach. By making healthy lifestyle choices, monitoring your BP, and staying in touch with your doctor, you can reduce risks and ensure a safe pregnancy.
If you're concerned about your BP or need guidance, Apollo 24|7 offers expert consultations and prenatal care services. You can book an appointment easily online and get personalized advice for a healthy pregnancy journey. Stay informed, stay calm, and take good care of yourself.
Consult Top Gynaecologists
Consult Top Gynaecologists
Dr. Veena H
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS DGO
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Priyanka Surisetty
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
8 Years • MBBS, DGO
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Shailaja L
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, MS
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Abhishek Daga
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
20 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Kolkata
Gynae Care Fertility Centre, Kolkata
(150+ Patients)
Dr. Neetu Singh
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS , MD (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Ghaziabad
Mother And Kidz Clinic, Ghaziabad
Consult Top Gynaecologists
Dr. Veena H
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS DGO
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Priyanka Surisetty
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
8 Years • MBBS, DGO
Visakhapatnam
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam
Dr. Shailaja L
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
16 Years • MBBS, MS
Bangalore
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Karnataka, Bangalore
Dr. Abhishek Daga
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
20 Years • MBBS, MS (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Kolkata
Gynae Care Fertility Centre, Kolkata
(150+ Patients)
Dr. Neetu Singh
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
19 Years • MBBS , MD (Obstetrics & Gynaecology)
Ghaziabad
Mother And Kidz Clinic, Ghaziabad
