Pregnancy is indeed a beautiful experience and has numerous challenges to overcome. Some of these challenges include instances of low blood pressure (also called low BP), which can leave you feeling woozy or even weak.
However, since most people have experienced the topic now, it may be fitting to know its causes, symptoms, and how to be able to manage it to keep you and your baby healthy.
Read on to know more about what low BP in pregnancy means as well as how it can be handled.
Causes of Low BP During Pregnancy
Hormonal Changes
The pregnancy hormones influence the existing hormone levels in the body and thus relax the blood vessels and dilate them. This may lower the pressure in the blood vessels, and is most common in the first and second trimesters.
Increased Blood Circulation
During pregnancy, there is an increased volume of blood so that sufficient blood can be delivered to the growing fetus inside. This increase can lower the average blood pressure in the early weeks of pregnancy, especially in the second trimester.
Posture
The supine position for sleep in pregnant ladies causes transient pressure in the uterus and, thus, pressure on vessels. That is the reason it is likely advised for pregnant women to keep themselves in a lateral position in later stages.
Dehydration
Dehydration could be due to vomiting (morning sickness), hot weather, or just drinking very little fluid, which lowers blood volume and BP.
Underlying Medical Conditions
Certain conditions, like heart disease or nutritional deficiencies, can contribute to low BP during pregnancy.
Symptoms of Low BP During Pregnancy
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness, especially when standing or sitting up
- Fainting
- Nausea
- Tiredness
- Blurred vision
- Unusual thirst
- Clammy, pale, or cold skin
- Rapid or shallow breathing
- Lack of concentration
Effects of Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
Reduced Blood Flow to the Baby
The most dangerous aspect of low BP in pregnancy is that the optimally diminished blood flow to the placenta means the baby does not receive enough oxygen and nutrient supply, which may affect its growth and development. Severe instances may cause intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) or, in extreme cases, preterm delivery.
Increased Risk of Fainting or Falling
Fainting and giddiness are classic signs of a mother’s low blood pressure, wherein candor should take care not to fall. Falling during pregnancy can be dangerous as it may injure the mother and, at worst, the child too.
Dehydration
The other condition of dehydration, along with morning sickness or vomiting, would sustain a low blood pressure situation. Dehydration implies lowering blood volume in the system and a further drop in blood pressure; thus, sustaining low blood pressure turns into a condition which is cyclic, hence impossible to self-manage without medical intervention.
Pregnancy Complications
Pre-existing low BP may interfere with other medical conditions. In this group of women, those with past disorders, like anemia or heart disease, may worsen their worries.
Such low blood pressure, therefore, deserves attention alongside pre-existing problems so that complications are not allowed to set in.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of low BP is simple. Your blood pressure will be regularly measured in any clinic setting by the prenatal healthcare provider. If you are consistently measured with low readings, usually less than 90/60 mmHg, your doctor will seek further investigation.
Questions regarding symptoms may be asked, physical examinations may be conducted, and medical history examined. In certain cases, some other tests, such as blood tests may be done to rule out other causes.
Treatment for Low BP During Pregnancy
Medications
In most cases, medications may not be required to treat low BP in pregnancy. However, if the symptoms become severe, or the drop in blood pressure is due to an underlying medical condition such as anemia or heart disease, your doctor may prescribe certain medications, including:
- Iron Supplements: If low BP is due to anemia (decreased iron levels), it may improve blood volume by supplementing iron.
- Steroids: In severe cases, corticosteroids may be administered to support blood pressure management.
- Electrolytes: If the woman is dehydrated, treatments may include electrolyte solutions to reintroduce balance.
Home Remedies
- Drink Plenty of Water: Pregnant women with low blood pressure are advised to drink a lot of water daily. The recommended amount of water is anywhere between 2 to 3 liters, so as to maintain blood volume.
- Eat Small Meals: Large meals tend to lower blood pressure. One instead should choose to eat smaller meals spaced throughout the day at regular intervals to help stabilize BP.
- Increase Salt Levels: Salt contains sodium, which can assist in boosting blood pressure. Thus, when adding salt to your food, blood pressure levels will likely be maintained; however, it is important to check with your doctor before increasing salt levels in your food.
- Lie on a Side: Try to lie down on your left side to avoid applying pressure on blood vessels, especially during the later pregnancy stages.
- Avoid Sudden Position Changes: While standing up or getting out of bed, do it deliberately and in a defined direction, so as not to get dizzy.
Prevention of Low BP During Pregnancy
- Eat a Balanced Diet: Ensure you’re getting enough nutrients, particularly iron, to prevent anemia.
- Monitor Your Blood Pressure: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help catch any issues early.
- Stay Active: Moderate exercise, such as walking, can improve circulation and help maintain healthy blood pressure.
- Avoid Dehydration: Drink plenty of fluids, especially during summer or if you’re experiencing nausea.
Conclusion
To sum up, low blood pressure is common during pregnancy but can be managed. Symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and nausea can occur, but in most cases, this does not pose a major risk when taken care of.
Staying hydrated, taking small meals, and avoiding sudden position changes can help. Always monitor symptoms on your own and consult the doctor when they worsen for a healthier pregnancy.
Frequently asked questions:
In general, low blood pressure is not dangerous in pregnancy, but it may present with discomfort such as a feeling of dizziness and fainting. In severe cases, though, low blood pressure might affect the flow of blood to the placenta, possibly leading to complications.
Yes, in general, moderate exercise is safe during pregnancy and helps circulation. For further personalized recommendations, please check with your doctor.
