Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy

Cardiology | by Dr. Sabyasachi Pal | Published on 09/09/2024

Introduction

Pregnancy is a time of great joy and expectations, but it also brings several changes and challenges to a female’s body. One of these challenges often experienced by pregnant women is low blood pressure, also known as hypotension. While high blood pressure is usually discussed, low blood pressure during pregnancy is equally crucial to understand. This condition, if not managed properly on time, can cause serious complications for both the mother and the baby. 

If you are pregnant and experience lightheadedness, blurred vision, or fatigue often, book your appointment with one of the best cardiologists at BM Birla Heart Research Hospital in Kolkata for state-of-the-art facilities and proper care.

This blog offers comprehensive information about low blood pressure during pregnancy that also includes its symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment options, and preventive measures. 

What is Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy?

Low blood pressure, or hypotension, occurs when the force of blood against the walls of the arteries is lower than normal. During pregnancy, a woman's cardiovascular system undergoes significant changes, which can cause blood pressure to drop. While a mild decrease in blood pressure is common and usually not a cause for concern, significant drops can lead to symptoms and potential complications. Typically, blood pressure readings lower than 90/60 mm Hg are considered hypotensive.

What Are the Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy?

Identifying the symptoms of low blood pressure is vital for timely intervention. If any of the following symptoms are severe or persistent, it is important to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any serious complications. Some key common symptoms are:

Initial Symptoms	Progressive Symptoms
Dizziness or Lightheadedness	Experiencing dizziness or fainting, particularly when standing up quickly, is one of the common signs of low blood pressure
Nausea	Some females may experience nausea accompanied by vomiting
Fatigue	Consistent tiredness or a feeling of weakness
Blurred Vision	Sudden vision changes like blurriness can be experienced
Cold or Clammy Skin	Low blood pressure causes the skin to feel cold and clammy.
Rapid or Shallow Breathing	Breathing may become quicker and shallower
Depression or Anxiety	Emotional symptoms such as anxiety or feelings of depression can sometimes be linked to hypotension.

What Are the Causes of Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy?

Various factors are identified that contribute to low blood pressure during pregnancy, such as:

• Hormonal Changes: Pregnancy hormones, like progesterone, relax blood vessel walls, causing lower blood pressure during pregnancy.
• Expanding Circulatory System: The body's circulatory system extends to adapt to the growing fetus, which might lead to lower blood pressure.
• Dehydration: Improper fluid intake also is another factor causing blood pressure to drop during pregnancy.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients, mainly iron, can contribute to hypotension.
• Prolonged Bed Rest: Extended periods of lying down can lead to a decrease in blood pressure.
• Standing Up Too Quickly: Rapid changes in position can cause temporary drops in blood pressure.
• Medical Conditions: Different medical conditions, such as anaemia or cardiovascular issues, can also cause low blood pressure.

What Are the Risk Factors for Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy?

While any pregnant woman can experience low blood pressure, certain factors increase the likelihood:

• First Trimester: Low blood pressure is more common in the first trimester due to rapid hormonal changes.
• Multiple Pregnancies: Women carrying twins or multiples are at higher risk.
• Underlying Health Conditions: Pre-existing health conditions, such as heart problems or endocrine disorders, can predispose women to hypotension.
• Poor Nutrition: Poor dietary habits during pregnancy can exacerbate the risk of blood pressure
• Hydration Issues: Not drinking enough fluids increases the risk of hypotension.
• Medications: Some medications prescribed during pregnancy can lower blood pressure.

How is Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy Diagnosed?

Early and proper diagnosis is key to managing low blood pressure effectively and ensuring a healthy pregnancy. Here is how low blood pressure is diagnosed: 

• Medical History and Physical Assessment: A comprehensive review of the patient's medical history and symptoms. Monitoring blood pressure readings frequently, particularly if symptoms are observed.
• Blood Tests: It is performed to exclude the possibility of any underlying conditions such as anaemia during pregnancy.
• Urine Tests: This test is involved in detecting the signs of dehydration or other issues.
• Electrocardiogram (ECG): With this test, the healthcare provider can monitor heart activity and rule out heart-related causes.

What Are the Treatment Options for Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy?

Managing symptoms and addressing underlying causes is the primary aim of treatment for low blood pressure during pregnancy. Usually, if a female experiences low blood pressure during pregnancy, it can be managed without treatment. However, in case of regular or persistent hypotension, doctors might involve certain medical measures to manage the problem. Depending on the symptoms and causes, here are some recommended options by the doctors to manage hypotension:

• Hydration: It is crucial to ensure persistent fluid intake to prevent dehydration and low blood pressure during pregnancy.
• Balanced Diet: Including a healthy and nutritious diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and iron to prevent deficiencies helps control blood pressure.
• Frequent or Small Meals: Eating smaller, more frequent meals to maintain stable blood pressure levels.
• Gradual Position Changes: Doctors often recommend sudden movements and rising slowly from sitting or lying positions as it might trigger low blood pressure.
• Compression Stockings: Wearing compression stockings to improve circulation and prevent blood pooling in the legs.
• Medication: In a very rare case, medications may be prescribed, but this is rare and only involved when required.

What Are the Precautions to Take to Prevent Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy?

Preventive measures can help eliminate the risk of developing low blood pressure during pregnancy:

• Don’t skip drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
• Focus on a diet that includes a variety of nutrients, particularly iron and protein.
• Take breaks and sit down when required to avoid prolonged periods of standing.
• Avoid sudden changes in posture and take your time when getting up from sitting or lying down.
• Don’t wear tight-fitted clothing as it can help improve circulation.
• Regularly track your blood pressure to identify any significant changes.

Conclusion

Low blood pressure during pregnancy requires careful attention and management to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby. By understanding the symptoms, causes, risk factors, and treatment options, expectant mothers can take proactive steps to maintain healthy blood pressure levels. It is crucial to approach this condition with empathy and reassurance, recognising that with proper care and guidance, most women can achieve healthy and safe pregnancies. Consulting healthcare professionals for personalised advice and support throughout the pregnancy journey goes a long way.

FAQs

Can pregnancy cause low blood pressure?

Yes, pregnancy can cause low blood pressure due to hormonal changes. These changes can relax blood vessel walls, causing reduced blood pressure, mainly in the first and second trimesters.

What should you eat for low blood pressure during pregnancy?

Doctors recommend eating a balanced diet rich in iron, protein, and complex carbohydrates, including foods like lean meats, leafy greens, whole grains, and legumes. It is crucial to stay hydrated and have small or frequent meals to maintain stable blood pressure.

Is it normal to experience low blood pressure during pregnancy?

Yes, it is normal for blood pressure to decrease during pregnancy in the first and second trimesters. However, significant symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare expert to ensure there are no underlying conditions or problems.