The Silent Threat: Understanding and Managing Hypertension in Pregnancy
Hypertension in pregnancy is a serious but often overlooked condition that puts both mothers and babies at risk. For Black women, the stakes are even higher, as they are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than their white counterparts, according to the CDC. Despite advances in maternal healthcare, high blood pressure remains a leading cause of maternal mortality, preterm birth, and complications like preeclampsia.
With knowledge and proactive care, we can change this narrative. This blog will break down the risks, dispel harmful myths, and provide actionable strategies for managing hypertension in pregnancy.
🔍 Understanding Hypertension in Pregnancy
Hypertension (high blood pressure) occurs when the force of blood against artery walls is consistently too high. During pregnancy, this can strain the heart, kidneys, and other organs while reducing blood flow to the placenta, which may result in low birth weight, preterm birth, or stillbirth.
There are three primary types of hypertension in pregnancy:
1. Chronic Hypertension: High blood pressure diagnosed before pregnancy or before 20 weeks of gestation.
2. Gestational Hypertension: High blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy, typically without other organ damage.
3. Preeclampsia: A severe form of hypertension that can affect the liver, kidneys, and brain, potentially leading to seizures (eclampsia) or stroke if untreated.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), preeclampsia affects 1 in 12 pregnancies, with Black women at significantly higher risk.
🛑 Dispelling Myths About Hypertension in Pregnancy
❌ Myth #1: High blood pressure only affects people with an unhealthy lifestyle.
✅ Reality: While diet and exercise play a role, hypertension is also influenced by genetics, stress, pre-existing conditions, and systemic healthcare disparities. Black women often experience higher rates of chronic stress and limited access to quality prenatal care, increasing their risk.
❌ Myth #2: If you feel fine, your blood pressure must be normal.
✅ Reality: Hypertension is often called the "silent killer" because it can be asymptomatic until it reaches dangerous levels. Regular monitoring is essential, even if you feel well.
❌ Myth #3: High blood pressure in pregnancy is normal and nothing to worry about.
✅ Reality: While blood pressure may naturally fluctuate, consistent high readings (140/90 mmHg or higher) are dangerous and require medical attention to prevent complications like preeclampsia or stroke.
❌ Myth #4: Only older or overweight women are at risk.
✅ Reality: Hypertension in pregnancy affects women of all ages, body types, and backgrounds. Even young, healthy women with no prior history of high blood pressure can develop gestational hypertension or preeclampsia.
🔑 Who Is at Risk?
While anyone can develop hypertension in pregnancy, certain factors increase the likelihood:
📌 Black women – due to a combination of genetic predisposition, stress, and healthcare disparities.
📌 History of hypertension – if you had high blood pressure before pregnancy or in a prior pregnancy.
📌 Family history of preeclampsia – a mother or sister with a history raises the risk.
📌 Carrying multiples – twin or triplet pregnancies put extra strain on the body.
📌 Autoimmune conditions – such as lupus or diabetes.
📌 Obesity or high BMI – though not the only factor, excess weight can contribute.
📌 Advanced maternal age – women over 35 face a slightly increased risk.
📢 Signs & Symptoms to Watch For
Since hypertension can be silent, it’s important to watch for warning signs, especially in the third trimester:
🔺 Severe headaches that won’t go away
🔺 Swelling in the face or hands (especially sudden or extreme swelling)
🔺 Vision changes (blurry vision, seeing spots, light sensitivity)
🔺 Shortness of breath or chest pain
🔺 Upper right abdominal pain (liver pain, linked to preeclampsia)
🔺 Decreased fetal movement
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
💡 Managing Hypertension in Pregnancy
Taking control of blood pressure during pregnancy requires a mix of medical care, lifestyle adjustments, and self-advocacy. Here’s how you can protect yourself and your baby:
🔹 Monitor Your Blood Pressure Regularly – Invest in a home blood pressure cuff and track readings daily. If your numbers rise above 140/90 mmHg, call your provider.
🔹 Prioritize Prenatal Care – Regular checkups allow for early detection and treatment. If you feel your concerns are ignored, advocate for yourself or bring a support person.
🔹 Take Medications as Prescribed – Some blood pressure medications are safe for pregnancy and may be necessary to prevent complications.
🔹 Watch Your Diet – Reduce sodium intake, eat potassium-rich foods (bananas, spinach, beans), and stay hydrated.
🔹 Stay Active – Gentle activities like walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga can help maintain cardiovascular health.
🔹 Manage Stress – Chronic stress can elevate blood pressure. Practice deep breathing, meditation, or journaling to maintain emotional well-being.
🔹 Know Your Birth Plan – If you have hypertension, your provider may recommend early delivery or additional monitoring. Discuss options in advance.
🌎 Resources for Support & Education
✅ Preeclampsia Foundation (preeclampsia.org) – Information, support groups, and personal stories from survivors.
✅ Navigate Maternity is a maternal health technology company dedicated to improving pregnancy and postpartum care through remote monitoring and real-time data insights.
✅ CDC Hear Her Campaign (cdc.gov/hearher) – Helps women recognize warning signs and advocate for care.
✅ March of Dimes (marchofdimes.org) – Information on managing high-risk pregnancies.
✅ Birthing the Magic Collaborative Library (birthingmagic.org) – Workshops, education, and support for Black birthing people.
🔥 Final Thoughts: Advocate for Your Health
High blood pressure in pregnancy is serious but manageable when caught early. Unfortunately, Black women often face delayed diagnoses, dismissal of symptoms, and inadequate treatment. Knowing the risks, speaking up, and demanding proper care can make the difference between life and loss.
If you're pregnant or planning to be, start monitoring your blood pressure today and empower yourself with knowledge. Share this information with friends, family, and anyone who needs to hear it—because every Black mother deserves a safe and healthy pregnancy.