I travel often, in fact more often than not. It seems that I see women everywhere scurrying through their daily lives, the same as me. But these women are carrying a new life. A little person completely dependent upon them for survival – not the same as me! Pregnancy amazes me.
Unfortunately for some, pregnancy does not allow for a “normal” daily life. Certain conditions such as Pregnancy Induced Hypertension can create emotional as well as serious physical concerns.
Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (PIH) also sometimes referred to as preeclampsia or toxemia occurs in about 5 to 10 percent of pregnancies. Chronic hypertension varies from PIH in that it is normally present prior to pregnancy.
Both conditions, however, can pose serious health threats to both mother and baby. There are also cases of gestational high blood pressure which do not necessarily pose the same risks, but can increase the chances of the mother later developing PIH.
Why high blood pressure is a problem in pregnancy
Blood flow to different systems in the body is hindered with high blood pressure. Because of the lack of blood flow, the baby can suffer too.
The restricted blood flow can cause the fetus to abrupt from the placenta prematurely (placental abruption.) The baby can also be underweight or suffer a lack of proper development due to the lack of nutrients.
Worse, PIH left untreated can lead to seizures, the mother’s death and/or fetal death.
Symptoms of Pregnancy Induced Hypertension (not a complete list):
high blood pressure
blurred vision
extreme nausea
edema or swelling
more than trace amounts of protein in the urine present
Each symptom alone does not necessarily mean that PIH is present. It is usually a combination of two or more symptoms.
These systems may result in regular trips to the doctor for monitoring to determine if PIH has developed is or likely to develop.
Treatment
Having the baby is the best cure for the mother, but not necessarily the best option for the baby. The baby may not yet be developed enough to sustain life outside the womb.
The most common treatment for PIH during pregnancy is increased rest. Different degrees of bed rest may be in order for different cases of severity in order to lower blood pressure. Some women find themselves spending weeks or even months in bed, often lying on their left side. These women are usually advised only to get up for bathroom and shower trips or to grab a bite to eat.
The stress of a complicated pregnancy affects not just the mother, but those who love them especially the father or partner. I’ve spoken with a number of fathers whose own blood pressure soared as a result of such stress and tension during pregnancy.
If you are pregnant, take your pre-natal care seriously. Almost all pregnancies result in happy, healthy babies, mothers AND fathers. Reduce the stress and tension in your life wherever possible to help keep your blood pressure normal or at least at manageable levels.
My blood pressure program focuses on intense relaxation which is also a good accompaniment to bed rest. It can also assist the loved ones who are experiencing the anxiety from a complicated or even a healthy pregnancy.
Warm Regards,
Christian Goodman
EL331001
