Chronic Hypertension in Pregnancy Definition, Periods Affected, Symptoms, and Management Your Name Date
What is Chronic Hypertension in Pregnancy? - Hypertension diagnosed before pregnancy or before 20 weeks of gestation. - High BP ≥140/90 mmHg on two separate occasions. - Can lead to complications such as preeclampsia and IUGR.
1. Prenatal Period - **When It Happens**: Diagnosed before pregnancy or <20 weeks gestation. - **Symptoms**: Elevated BP, headache, swelling, shortness of breath. - **Complications**: Superimposed preeclampsia, placental abruption, IUGR, preterm birth.
2. Innatal Period (Labor and Delivery) - **Risks During Labor**: Uncontrolled hypertension, preterm labor, C-section may be necessary. - **Management**: Antihypertensive therapy (Labetalol, Hydralazine), continuous monitoring, seizure prevention (if preeclampsia suspected).
3. Postpartum Period - **When It Happens**: Hypertension can persist or worsen postpartum. - **Symptoms**: Elevated BP, headache, fatigue, swelling. - **Complications**: Preeclampsia, stroke, heart failure, pulmonary edema. - **Management**: BP monitoring, medication adjustment, regular follow-up.
Management of Chronic Hypertension in Pregnancy - **Prenatal Care**: Regular BP monitoring, lifestyle modifications, safe antihypertensives (Labetalol, Methyldopa, Nifedipine). - **Innatal Care**: BP management, seizure prevention (Magnesium Sulfate), fetal monitoring. - **Postpartum Care**: Continue BP monitoring, adjust medications, follow-up for long-term hypertension management.