Planning for 2nd baby but Blood Pressure may be too high?

Question

So I developed high blood pressure when I was pregnant but 3 months post-partum it went back to normal. Almost a year later, my husband and I are thinking about getting pregnant again but I've noticed that my BP is somewhat high (110/90) The bottom number ranges from 86-90

Top number is not a problem What do you think

Thanks!

Answer 1

Your diastolic is a little high. The biggest risk you could face is Pre-Eclampsia which is characterised by hypertension with a diastolic BP >90 and proteinuria occurring after 20 weeks of pregnancy or sometimes in the postpartum period. Fitting may also occur (which is known as Eclampsia). Obviously with your first child this was not a problem as it is normal for an increase in BP during pregnancy.

My suggestion is consult your doctor if you are really concerned.  

Answer 2

Although many pregnant women with high blood pressure have healthy babies without serious problems, high blood pressure can be dangerous for both the mother and the fetus. Women with pre-existing, or chronic, high blood pressure are more likely to have certain complications during pregnancy than those with normal blood pressure. However, some women develop high blood pressure while they are pregnant (often called gestational hypertension).

The effects of high blood pressure range from mild to severe. High blood pressure can harm the mother's kidneys and other organs, and it can cause low birth weight and early delivery. In the most serious cases, the mother develops preeclampsia--or "toxemia of pregnancy"--which can threaten the lives of both the mother and the fetus.

What Is Preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a condition that typically starts after the 20th week of pregnancy and is related to increased blood pressure and protein in the mother's urine (as a result of kidney problems). Preeclampsia affects the placenta, and it can affect the mother's kidney, liver, and brain. When preeclampsia causes seizures, the condition is known as eclampsia--the second leading cause of maternal death in the U.S. Preeclampsia is also a leading cause of fetal complications, which include low birth weight, premature birth, and stillbirth.

There is no proven way to prevent preeclampsia. Most women who develop signs of preeclampsia, however, are closely monitored to lessen or avoid related problems. The only way to "cure" preeclampsia is to deliver the baby

Answer 3

I think you should talk with your family doctor to get a sound answer.