Hypertension in Pregnancy: A Review

Background: Hypertension affects 10% of pregnancies in the US and is the leading cause of maternal and infant mortality. Hypertension during pregnancy involves several conditions, particularly preeclampsia, a type of hypertension that differs from pregnancy, which is more de Novo or chronic hypertension. Risks to the fetus include premature birth, stunted growth, and death. Childbirth is a direct treatment for preeclampsia. Treatment of acute hypertension is necessary to prevent cerebrovascular, cardiac, and renal problems in the mother. The other two types of hypertension, chronic and transient hypertension, are usually very bad. Proper management of hypertension during pregnancy requires consideration of various factors in the cardiovascular physiology of pregnancy. The main goal is to prevent complications in the mother associated with impaired uterine blood flow and fetal blood circulation. Before prescribing an antihypertensive drug, it is important to carefully evaluate the potential risk to the fetus from the interaction of uterine drugs. This review article aims to show the investigations and treatment available in cases of preeclampsia.

Conclusion: The ultimate goal of treating high blood pressure during pregnancy is to have a healthy newborn without harming the mother's health.