Postpartum Hypertension: What You Need to Know

High blood pressure during pregnancy is known as postpartum hypertension. This condition can cause various complications for the mother and her baby, including an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. In some cases, it can even lead to death. In recent years, there has been an increase in newly diagnosed postpartum hypertension rates among women in the United States. Here’s what you need to know.

A Balanced Heart Is A Healthy Heart

Are you living from the heart? Find out. Take our brief quiz to get your own #LiveFromTheHeart tip sheet.

Take the quiz!

What Causes Postpartum Hypertension?

Postpartum hypertension is caused by a variety of factors, but the most common is a hormonal imbalance during pregnancy. Hormonal changes can affect the body’s natural balance of sodium and potassium, causing high blood pressure levels to rise. Other factors that can contribute to postpartum hypertension include dehydration, smoking or drug use during pregnancy, anemia (low iron levels), and pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes or high cholesterol levels. It is important to note that although postpartum hypertension is often caused by these factors, it can also be due to unknown underlying causes not yet identified.

Risks Associated with Postpartum Hypertension

Women who have recently given birth must be aware of the risks associated with postpartum hypertension so they can take steps to lower their risk of developing this condition. The most common risks associated with this condition include heart attack or stroke caused by a build-up of plaque in the arteries; organ damage due to prolonged exposure to high blood pressure; and preeclampsia (a potentially life-threatening complication). Women should also be aware that postpartum hypertension can increase their risk of developing other serious conditions such as gestational diabetes and chronic kidney disease later on down the road.

What Can You Do About It?

Postpartum hypertension is a serious medical condition that must be taken seriously and monitored closely for women and their babies to remain safe and healthy throughout their pregnancies. Women who are pregnant should always talk with their doctor about any concerns they may have regarding their health before giving birth so they can take steps towards reducing their risk for developing this condition. With proper knowledge about the risks associated with postpartum hypertension and good communication between patient and doctor, women will be able to make informed decisions about how best to manage this condition throughout their pregnancies so they and their babies stay safe and healthy during this special time in life.