High blood pressure (hypertension) that occurs during pregnancy is called transient high blood pressure of pregnancy. The increase in blood pressure is usually mild and not harmful to the fetus.
Mild high blood pressure during pregnancy is not necessarily dangerous by itself. However, it is closely monitored because it can be a sign of a more serious condition, such as preeclampsia. But most women with transient high blood pressure have a normal delivery, and blood pressure returns to normal within 12 weeks of delivery.
High blood pressure that does not return to normal within about 12 weeks is diagnosed as chronic high blood pressure.1
Credits
| Author | Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | William Gilbert, MD - Perinatology |
| Last Updated | November 22, 2006 |
© 1995-2007, Healthwise, Incorporated, P.O. Box 1989, Boise, ID 83701. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information. For more information, click here. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed.
