Hypertension in pregnancy: the importance of monitoring

Abstract

The prevalence of gestational hypertension is quite common, however, some forms of this condition can range from a mild occurrence of high blood pressure to posing life-threatening complications for both the mother and the fetus. There are three types of hypertension—chronic, pre-eclampsia and transient. There are a number of indicators that have been identified as predisposing some women to developing either of the above forms of hypertension. The main contributors are age, obesity, diabetes, underlying hypertension and kidney disorders. The only known ‘cure’ for any hypertensive problem is delivery of the baby, but a number of ways to control this condition have been developed. The most established and reliable way to ensure a favourable outcome is to closely monitor the woman and provide a well-formulated management plan.