LOW BLOOD PRESSURE

Pregnancy guide

LOW BLOOD PRESSURE AND PREGNANCY

It is quite common to have low blood pressure while pregnant due to the body changes occurring in this period.
Most women experience a drop in their blood pressure in the first trimester. The middle of the second trimester marks the point when the blood pressure is lowest.
It does not generally lead to any adverse outcome, but in severe cases may be dangerous for both the mother and baby.

The systolic blood pressure (the top number) ranges around 120, and the diastolic (the bottom number) ranges around 80: this is normal in a healthy individual.
In most pregnant women, the systolic drops by 5-10 mmHg while the diastolic drops about 10-15 mmHg.

The rapid expansion in your blood volume for supplying enough oxygen and nutrients to your baby dilates the blood vessels and causes your blood pressure to drop.
Other possible causes include carrying twins, a previous history of low blood pressure, or having dehydration, anaemia, endocrine problems and certain heart disorders.

• Dizziness
• Blurred vision.
• Headache.
• Nausea.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Excessive thirst.
• Pale, cold and clammy skin.
• Fatigue.
• Elevated heart rate.

• Including salt in your diet.
• Drinking lots of fluids.
• Following a healthy balancing diet.

Here are some tips for raising your blood pressure levels and avoiding the symtoms:

• Lying on your left side.
• Avoiding sudden rapid movements.
• Wearing compression stockings.
• Avoiding standing for extended periods of time.
• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol.
• Eating several small meals instead of three large ones.
• Sitting still or lying for a while after eating.
• Avoiding lying on your back.
• Avoiding strenuous exercises.

• Fainting feeling that worsens over time.
• Headache.
• Blurred vision.
• Vomiting.
• Shortness of breath.
• Extremely high pulse rate.
• Chest pain.
• Bleeding.

For further information
For further information