Low BP During Pregnancy: A Matter of Concern?

Pregnancy is a very sensitive phase in a woman’s life. Her diet, appearance, tolerance and drive may change due to the ongoing hormonal changes during the pregnancy. Fluctuations in the blood pressure (BP) are commonly observed during the first and second trimester of pregnancy. Low blood pressure (Hypotension) occurs when the blood pressure reading is lower than 90 mm of Hg for systolic or less than 60 mm of Hg for diastolic. Hypotension is a common phenomenon which usually occurs during pregnancy because more blood is being routed to the fetus.

Causes of low blood pressure during pregnancy:

The female body releases hormones in large amounts to relax the walls of the blood vessels to increase the blood flow towards the baby, causing hypotension (low blood pressure). In rare conditions, the low blood pressure is an indication of ectopic pregnancy in which the egg gets fertilized outside the uterus. In case of extreme low blood pressure, the woman may feel dizziness, fainting or shock when enough blood is unable to reach the vital organs for their proper functioning.

Risk factors of low blood pressure during pregnancy:

Various risk factors which are also responsible for low blood pressure during pregnancy are:

• Dehydration
• Anemia
• Internal bleeding
• Prolonged bed rest
• Certain medications
• Heart diseases
• Endocrine disorders
• Kidney disorders
• Infections
• Nutritional deficiency
• Allergic reactions

Signs and symptoms of low blood pressure during pregnancy:

Here are some signs and symptoms which can cause hypotension/low blood pressure during pregnancy:

• Lightheadedness
• Fainting
• Tiredness
• Blurred vision
• Dizziness
• Unusual thirst
• Nausea
• Pale or cold skin
• Rapid breathing
• Lack of concentration

Effects of low blood pressure on the baby:

A large number of researches have been conducted to find out the effects of low blood pressure (hypotension) on the baby during pregnancy. But the data is still limited. Some studies claim that low blood pressure can lead to low birth weight and even stillbirth. However, other studies show that additional risk factors are responsible for these outcomes.

Complications of low blood pressure during pregnancy:

Low blood pressure during pregnancy does not impose any serious threats for the mother and her developing fetus, but in some serious conditions, it can create complications in the pregnancy. One major complication is dizziness as it may lead to fainting or falling which can be dangerous for the mother and the baby. Low blood pressure by reducing the flow of blood to the fetus, can damage the brain of the fetus, resulting in even stillbirth.

Diagnosis:

Fluctuating blood pressure can be measured with a simple test which can be performed either at the hospital or even at home. The doctor will place an inflatable cuff around the arm and use a gauge to measure and observe the blood pressure. If the low pressure persists throughout the pregnancy, then the doctor may ask you to undergo more tests to rule out the risk factors relating to pregnancy.

Treatment for low blood pressure during pregnancy:

Women with low blood pressure during pregnancy do not require any kind of treatment. Doctors also do not recommend any kind of medications related to low blood pressure until and unless the complications and symptoms are serious. Generally, blood pressure comes back to normal during the third trimester of the pregnancy.

Home remedies for low blood pressure during pregnancy:

Here are some home remedies/diet additions which pregnant women may try, to normalize their low blood pressure. These home remedies are safer and effective ways to treat hypotension/low blood pressure like conditions. These may include:

• Drinking saltwater
• Eating raisins daily
• Including basil leaves in diet
• Drinking beetroot juice
• Incorporating ginger in food and drinks
• Having lemons in the form of lemonade
• Adding aniseeds in meals
• Drinking carrot juice
• Drinking almond milk (you may also add a paste of soaked and crushed almonds in the milk)
• Taking proper rest as much as possible

Self-care for low blood pressure during pregnancy:

If you experience low pressure symptoms such as fainting or dizziness, try these steps to relieve yourself:

• Never get up too quickly when you are seated or in lying position
• Avoid standing for a long duration
• Eat small portions of healthy and nutritious meals throughout the day
• Consume fresh fruits and vegetables rich in minerals
• Avoid taking hot bath or showers
• Exercise to improve the low blood pressure-like conditions
• Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated
• Wear loose clothing
• Take prenatal supplements to avoid the risk of low blood pressure

Our Specialists at Yashoda Hospital & Research Centre, Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad:

Dr. Shashi Arora is the Head of the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology at Yashoda Hospital & Research Centre, Nehru Nagar, Ghaziabad. She is indisputably the best Obstetrician & Gynecologist in Delhi NCR. With a medical experience spanning a period of more than 40 years, she has performed 60,000+ deliveries till date. She specializes in all women-related issues including hysterectomy and advanced laparoscopy surgery.

Dr. Jyotsana Agarwal is one of the best gynecologists and obstetricians in Delhi NCR. She has an experience of 30 years in the field of gynecology and is a prestigious member of the FOGSI which adds to her credibility. She is known to offer several medical services including treatment of diseases during pregnancy.

Dr. Aparna Arya Tyagi is one of the best-known obstetricians and gynecologists in Delhi NCR with a great experience in high-risk obstetrics management, serious cesarean deliveries, open gynae surgeries, infertility and gynae cases. She specializes in preventive oncology of the female reproductive system as well as in diagnosing and managing high-risk pregnancies.

If the pregnant woman develops high blood pressure or low blood pressure like conditions, consult a gynecologist. Gynecologists at Yashoda Hospital & Research Centre, Ghaziabad are well known for their treatment and supportive care during pregnancy. We have the best gynecologists with tremendous experience in the entire Delhi NCR, so book an appointment now. They will help you to carry on with a safe and healthy pregnancy.