Gestational Hypertension

Gestational Hypertension is a condition that occurs during pregnancy and affects the blood pressure of the mother. It involves the circulatory system, where the blood vessels experience increased pressure. This condition usually develops after the 20th week of pregnancy and can impact the health of both the mother and the baby. High blood pressure can reduce blood flow to the placenta, potentially leading to complications such as low birth weight or preterm delivery. Monitoring blood pressure regularly is important to detect this condition early. It does not include the presence of protein in the urine, which distinguishes it from preeclampsia. Managing gestational hypertension helps prevent more serious problems during pregnancy.

Gestational Hypertension is defined as new-onset systolic blood pressure ≥140 mm Hg or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mm Hg occurring after 20 weeks of gestation in a previously normotensive woman. It results from abnormal vascular adaptation to pregnancy, leading to increased systemic vascular resistance and endothelial dysfunction. Unlike preeclampsia, it lacks significant proteinuria or end-organ damage at diagnosis. The condition is significant because it increases the risk of progression to preeclampsia, placental abruption, and adverse fetal outcomes such as intrauterine growth restriction. The pathophysiology involves impaired trophoblastic invasion and abnormal remodeling of spiral arteries. It is a major cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity worldwide. Early identification and monitoring are critical to prevent complications.