Hypertension
Obstetric Hypertension affects about 6 to 8 percent of expectant mothers. It can lead to a serious complication called preeclampsia, which typically develops after week 20 of pregnancy. Gestational hypertension can affect any pregnant woman, but preeclampsia is an added risk especially in first-time moms, women carrying multiplies, women younger than 20 or older than 40, women with a family history of pregnancy-induced hypertension and women who had high blood pressure or kidney disease prior to pregnancy.
Preeclampsia is a condition that can happen after 20 weeks of pregnancy or following birth, when a woman with gestational hypertension also has increased protein in her urine. About 4 to 5 percent of pregnancies are complicated by preeclampsia. There exists an increased rate of cardiac complications, bleeding, stroke and blood clots. Preeclampsia can also lead to reduced birth weight in the fetus and cause premature birth.
ACOG
Preeclampsia and High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy »
ACOG
Gestational Hypertension and Preeclampsia »
CDC
High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy »
CDC
Data on Selected Pregnancy Complications in the United States »
March of Dimes
Preeclampsia »
Preeclampsia Foundation
Current Guidelines »
Society for Maternal Fetal Medicine
Evaluation and Management of Severe Preeclampsia »