It is always important to take care of yourself before, during and after pregnancy. This is further illustrated by a recent study in the journal Hypertension, which found an increase in the number of women with chronic hypertension dying during and after pregnancy.
The study looked at 155 million births in the United States between 1979 and 2018 and found that 3,287 mothers died from causes related to high blood pressure. Studies have shown that about a third of maternal deaths occur before birth; A third occurs on the day of delivery or within a week and a third between a week and a year after delivery. Researchers estimated that 75% of deaths were preventable.
"I think there are a number of factors that play a role and as the American population has been getting sicker lately, chronic diseases are also contributing, notably diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity. dr Jamie Plate, obstetrician-gynecologist, says 6 “These things put the mother and child at high risk. In general, I think American health is deteriorating in general and pregnant women are being affected as well."
The risk of blood pressure complications increases with age and was particularly high in black women. Black women were three to four times more likely to die from blood pressure problems than white women, according to the study. It's a cause for concern, says Dr. Plate that goes beyond pregnancy issues.
High blood pressure poses various risks during pregnancy, including premature birth, future cardiovascular disease, and reduced blood flow to the placenta, which can lead to further complications for the baby.
"One of the things that worries us is the age limits of pregnancy or whether the baby will have enough blood to grow, so it's important for all pregnant women to monitor that," said Dr. Flat.
The good news is that, so far. According to Dr. Plate can be prevented primarily through diet and exercise. Pregnant women are recommended to exercise for 30 minutes three to four times a week.
Pregnant women usually have their blood pressure checked at every wellness visit. There's nothing wrong with having a blood pressure-related cough at home, but not necessarily until the problem is suspected. High blood pressure is a systolic pressure of 120 and a diastolic pressure less than 80. Stage 2 high blood pressure 90 over 140. Your doctor can prescribe blood pressure medications that are safe for the mother and child.
"Treat as much as possible before pregnancy," says Dr. Plate and adds We'll be watching you more closely And we know you have them Things are riskier, but some things can be avoided.