PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — High blood pressure is known as the silent killer, but many are not aware that it can become a health issue during pregnancy.
One of the most important things an expectant mother or a woman thinking about getting pregnant can do is get an early appointment with her doctor. Prenatal care is a critical way to help increase the chances of delivering a healthy baby.
One reason for this care is something that most people do not associate with pregnancy: high blood pressure. Hypertension during pregnancy is relatively common, and just like hypertension in other settings, it has no symptoms.
The problem is that when a pregnant woman gets high blood pressure, it leads to decreased blood flow to the placenta. When the placenta does not get enough blood, the baby can receive fewer nutrients. This can lead to low birth weight or even premature birth.
The good news is that if it is detected, it can be managed.
KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.