High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can be present prior to becoming pregnant (chronic hypertension) or may develop during your pregnancy (Preeclampsia). Both can present problems for pregnancy and require special treatment.

If you have chronic hypertension the doctors at RPG will likely see you early in pregnancy. Keys to managing your high blood pressure will include: 

• A full evaluation of your current state of health. 
• Optimization of your current medication regimen to one that is both effective and safe for use in pregnancy. 
• A discussion regarding the possible complications sometimes seen in patients with chronic hypertension (including failure of the baby to grow, premature rupture of your membranes, preterm birth, and premature separation of the placenta (afterbirth) from the womb).
• A plan for follow up visits at RPG, including 1) Ultrasounds to look for structural problems and growth 2) Testing of your baby with Biophysicial Profile and Non-Stress Tests 3)Possible early delivery. 
• Coordination of your care with your obstetrician for the remainder of the pregnancy.