Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is generally called the “silent killer” due to its asymptomatic nature. During and after pregnancy, the body undergoes several changes. Even if your pregnancy was without any complications, this doesn’t put you off the hook for any issues after the baby arrives. As per a recent journal on hypertension, it is reported that 1 out of 10 women is at risk of developing high blood pressure after giving birth, known as postpartum hypertension.
This blog will dive into the nooks and crannies of postpartum hypertension, explaining its causes, symptoms, and solutions. What are you waiting for?
What is Postpartum Hypertension?
After pregnancy, high blood pressure is known as postpartum hypertension. It could be a continuation of gestational hypertension or arise anew within a few weeks after delivery. What is important here is that it should not be left unmanaged because it could put you at a higher risk of developing heart disease, stroke, or kidney disease later in life.
Although the condition is often temporary, it indicates a huge risk of developing cardiovascular diseases with long-term effects. Ergo, understanding its causes, risks, symptoms, and management strategies is crucial to ensure optimal health outcomes.
Causes of Postpartum Hypertension
- Hormonal Change: The body takes a hit during pregnancy and alters hormone levels, including the ones that regulate blood pressure. So, postpartum hormonal imbalance leads to blood pressure fluctuation, stress, and sleep deprivation.
- Pre-existing Hypertension: Women who have chronic hypertension before pregnancy are at a higher risk of experiencing hypertension after delivery.
- Preeclampsia History: It is a condition of having high blood pressure and organ damage, which increases the risk of high blood pressure. Women who have had preeclampsia before are likely to experience worse hypertension after delivery.
- Lifestyle Factors: Poor diet, stress, lack of physical activity, and insufficient sleep lead to high blood pressure postpartum.
- Diabetes and Obesity: Women who have diabetes or obesity are likely to develop hypertension during postpartum.
After Effects of Postpartum Hypertension
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Kidney damage
- Maternal mortality
Who is at Risk?
- Women with a history of preeclampsia or eclampsia.
- Women who have experienced gestational diabetes.
- Women over the age of 35.
- Women with a family history of hypertension.
- Women with diabetes and obesity.
Symptoms of Post-Pregnancy High Blood Pressure
- Throbbing headaches.
- Swelled hands and feet.
- Blurred vision.
- Visual disturbance.
- Chest pain.
- Difficult breathing.
- Nausea and vomiting.
How to Prevent and Manage Postpartum Hypertension?
- Regular Monitoring: You should keep a tab on your blood pressure during pregnancy and after delivery.
- Medications: Sometimes, your healthcare provider will put you on medication courses to manage your situation. However, it is essential to discuss the safety of those medications, especially if you are breastfeeding.
- Lifestyle Alterations: A balanced diet enriched with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, reducing sodium intake, exercising regularly, and managing stress help lower blood pressure.
- Postpartum Care: A new mother must take care of herself along with the newborn. You should seek guidance from your healthcare provider and attend regular checkups.
- Weight Management: Maintain a healthy weight to prevent hypertension.
How Trimacare™ Helps with Postpartum Hypertension?
Trimacare™ is a clinically formulated pregnancy supplement that plays a pivotal role in supporting new mothers’ health while managing high blood pressure. The pregnancy supplement is packed with 20+ essential nutrients, antioxidants, and MMN. Formulated to meet the unique requirements of Indian pregnant mothers, Trimacare™ takes optimal care of you before, during, and post-pregnancy.
With calcium and magnesium, Trimacare™ promotes healthy blood vessel function and reduces the risk of hypertension. Additionally, the formulation includes 100% veg Omega-3 fatty acids to reduce inflammation and boost heart health.
Trimacare™ has antioxidants like Vitamin C and E to combat oxidative stress (a contributing factor behind high blood pressure). Furthermore, it includes iron to prevent anemia and to help the heart and to exacerbate hypertension. With this potent blend of 20+ essential nutrients, Trimacare™ supports overall cardiovascular health, boosts energy levels, and promotes optimal wellness for new mothers.
Closing Remarks
Postpartum hypertension is a serious condition that affects 1 out of 10 women with short and long-term health consequences. Early diagnosis, constant monitoring, and lifestyle alterations help manage the condition.