Couple questions

nightowl1989

I was at the ER yesterday for crampng and bleeding concerns and of course, they did an u/s. I was 7 wks to the day, measuring 6w4d, HB 115. The ER doc or PA or whatever she was said this was low for a heartbeat, but stuff I've found said "normal" is in the 90-110 range. They also told me that pregnancy increases your blood pressure when I've read that it decreases it.

So, what is "normal," and why would the doc say 115 isn't? Also, since I doubt it can do both at the same time, does pg increase or decrease your BP? I'm beginning to think this woman was a complete quack, but I would love to be enlightened.

Helenahhandbasket

I do think 115bpm does sound low to me.  We were in the 140s then, but if the doctor didn't express any other concerns, I don't  think you should worry.

greeneyed_bride

For most women, pregnancy lowers your blood pressure. However, high blood pressure can be caused by pregnancy, too, and it can be indicative of potentially serious problems like pre-eclampsia. So an ER doctor is going to be looking out for high blood pressure in pregnant women as an indication of potentially serious problems.

mb314

Can you follow up with your OB/Midwife?  An ER doctor may not be as expert in the heart rate and blood pressure issues as someone who deals with pregnant ladies all the time.  Typically, a woman's blood pressure is lower during pregnancy.  Blood pressure issues like pre-eclampsia typically don't develop until much later in your 2nd or 3rd trimester. 

nightowl1989

Thanks guys! Sorry work is kicking my butt and making it hard to pop over here until late. I talked to the nurse at my follow-up and she did seem a little interested that my blood pressure has gone up but no huge concerns right now. I forgot to ask about the heartbeat but I will for my appointment next Friday. Still have some spotting and this stupid cough has me throwing up and having trouble breathing but FX for good news!

Greenmood

You need to speak to an obstetrics specialist. ED practitioners, by necessity, have a wide knowledge base. But that's all it is: a base. They deal with emergencies, and a dating ultrasound is not something most of them are expert in. Think about it. Depending on where they are, they might only see a handful of women at your gestational age in a year. You shouldn't expect them to have detailed intimate knowledge of fetal development. It doesn't mean she was a quack.