Low BP in Pregnancy: Symptoms, Effects & Treatments

Having low blood pressure or low BP in pregnancy is pretty common and often not a cause of worry. You may experience hypotension because your body’s blood is being rerouted to your baby, which can cause your blood vessels to dilate so as to accommodate more blood. Most women experience low BP during pregnancy in the first trimester. Your blood pressure will start getting back to normal mid-pregnancy.

In this article, we will learn about the symptoms of low blood pressure during pregnancy, its effects and how to treat low BP in pregnancy.

You may also like to read : Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) - Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Symptoms of low BP during pregnancy

Here are some of the most common symptoms that may indicate a low BP in pregnancy:

• Nausea

• Dizziness

• Blurred or double vision

• Weakness

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• Dehydration

• Breathlessness

• Cold, clammy skin

• Vaginal bleeding

• Depression

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These are commonly occurring symptoms that indicate hypotension. It would be good to discuss these with your doctor, especially if they hinder your everyday life.

Some of these may be caused by medication, do let your doctor know what medicines you’re taking. Low blood pressure in pregnancy can also happen due to an underlying health condition like heart disease, endocrine problems, anemia etc. Your doctor may run some tests to rule those out.

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Effects of low BP during pregnancy

Low blood pressure is something most women experience during early pregnancy and it usually doesn’t affect the baby’s health. However, extremely low blood pressure with no improvement is risky. It could cause fainting and feeling disoriented. The pregnant woman could fall down and get injured. This may cause internal damage to her and her growing baby.

Low BP in pregnancy may also make it difficult for the baby to get blood, oxygen and nutrients from the mother. This may even cause brain damage to the baby and in some cases, result in stillbirth. Such cases may require a constant monitoring of the mother and her baby.

Treatment of low blood pressure in pregnancy

The best way to keep your blood pressure in check during such times is to regularly schedule visits to your doctor. Your blood pressure has to be tracked frequently. Besides this, here are a few things you can do to treat low BP during pregnancy:

1. Healthy diet

Eating a healthy and balanced diet is extremely beneficial in treating low BP during pregnancy. Try to consume a balanced diet, full of vitamins and minerals daily. You should also consider eating something healthy every two hours instead of eating three meals in a day.

2. Light exercises

Exercising regularly can help stabilize your blood pressure during pregnancy. Try to engage in light exercises such as walking, yoga or Pilates and avoid any high-intensity workout regimes. If you experiencing dizziness and fatigue, consult your doctor immediately.

3. Adequate rest

It's necessary to get enough sleep and rest. Extreme movement can be very strenuous for you. Avoid any swift or jerky movements, being in the same posture for long hours and rising suddenly after lying or sitting. Try sleeping on your left side and wearing loose clothes.

4. Liquid intake

Fluids will keep you feeling hydrated and will help cleanse your system. Additionally, drinking green tea, coconut water or lime water can help alleviate symptoms like nausea, vomiting and fatigue.

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Closing Thoughts

The normal blood pressure range for a healthy person is considered to be 120/80 mmHg. However, blood pressure tends to fall during the first 24 weeks of pregnancy. If your blood pressure falls down to or below 90/60 mmHg, you should consult your doctor or get medical help immediately.

If you have been experiencing low BP in pregnancy, it’s essential for you to relax and take things a little slow. Let your loved ones pamper you and help you out.