Gestational Hypertension?

arghhhhhhhhh · January 2016

So I'm 37+5 and blood pressure read 110/92. Last week it was 120/18? (can't remember)

So midwife is having me come back Friday (3 days later) to test BP again. She tested for protein in urine and said it was negative.

I have no swelling and have only had a headache a few days ago from allergies (went away with a hot shower and spicy soup, hallelujah)

I did a search and saw that it can go up in pregnancy, especially during the end, but I am worried if there are any concerns or complications I might have to deliver at a hospital instead of at the birthing center. I will deliver wherever and in whatever way is safest for my baby, but I had a great experience at the birth center last time and really am prepared and hoping to do it there again.

So, my question, is there any way to control this? Since my appointment this morning I switched to all raw fruits and veg, no salt or dressing, and will supplement with small portions of fish or lean (lightly seasoned) meats. Also drinking hibiscus, pomegranate and cranberry.

I only have three days to try and bring BP down, and I'm not really sure it can be done. I guess I'm fuzzy on the mechanics of it.

Anybody have any advice or knowledge they can share?

RunnerMeg · January 2016

I don't think there is much that can be done, as far as diet and exercise go, to lower blood pressure at the end of pregnancy. The hypertension is caused by increased fluids and blood volume, hormones, etc. It's a by-product of pregnancy. Hopefully your appt on Friday goes well, great news that urine protein is negative.

arghhhhhhhhh · January 2016

Thanks @RunnerMeg I just wanted to do what I could. I guess I can only hope

RunnerMeg · January 2016

Totally understand! Well even if your BP is still high, eating good foods is still really good.

How is your swelling? Are you drinking lots of water/fluids?

BBEA2006 · January 2016

I also don't think there is much you can do. I had it w/ DS starting at around 37 weeks and like you, had no other pre-e signs. I ended up on bed rest and was induced right at 40 weeks with no complications. It stinks but as long as it doesn't develop into pre-e, you and the baby should be okay! Good luck!

willashbaby · January 2016

Did they take multiple readings? When I first get to the office my readings are often in the 150/90 area, then they let me rest and chill for a few minutes and it goes down to 135/75. I have white coat syndrome so they always have to give me a little while or retest me. As long as it comes down a bit no need to worry.

Becky012016 · January 2016

Previous posters gave good info. I would just just that for the safety of you and your LO, I would seriously look into birthing at the hospital as they would be better equipped if things go south. With blood pressure issues you can go from feeling great to seizing within minutes (worst case senario/not trying to scare you) and time is crucial. Unfortunately, anyone can have BP issues in pregnancy and at any point in pregnancy

arghhhhhhhhh · January 2016

@RunnerMeg
Yes, at least three liters of water a day! I half freeze three bottles each night and make sure they're empty by the evening.

I wasn't eating poorly during pregnancy but I certainly did indulge more than I would normally. So I guess it's good that I can get a two week head start on the switch back to the healthies.

Sounds horrible, I know, I should've been eating better for baby and saving the indulgences for after I delivered. But I've been eating lots of fruit and veg all pregnancy, but occasionally having things I'd never eat.

arghhhhhhhhh · January 2016

@BBEA2006 Thanks for the positive input. Good to know it turned out okay! I don't know what I would do on bed rest. Whatever is best for baby of course, but can you get anything done? Did you have to hire help?

@willashbaby Yes, they took it twice, it was actually higher the second time, maybe from juggling a toddler during the visit? I have to know, what is white coat syndrome?

claireloSC · January 2016

Def keep up the water and try to rest - that helps me with the swelling.

arghhhhhhhhh · January 2016

@012016 Of course if it gets out of hand or if medically indicated by my midwives (who seems to be keeping a pretty close eye on the situation) I would of course deliver at the hospital. The birth center I'm at works with the hospital and an OB there who is informed every time someone comes in in labor, so he can be ready.

They're a fully equipped medical facility, and in the event of an emergency cesarean the hospital is so close by, I'd probably be there before they even got scrubbed in.

Thank you for your concern though.

willashbaby · January 2016

White coat syndrome is when your heart rate and BP spike just being at the docs, basically medically induced anxiety. It's a good thing they don't check my BP at the dentist!

failuretofly · January 2016

Make sure you have been sitting for at least 5-10 minutes, with feet supported, before they check, and don't talk or move during the measurement. Both of those things can artificially increase your BP by 10-20 points.
Also, drinking water and keeping an eye on salt and protein intake will help. Don't eliminate salt all together, but just try and avoid processed foods or soups that have a high salt intake. We need salt, just not too much!

huskerfan2012 · January 2016

I know what you're feeling. I had my 37 week appointment yesterday (was 37+1) and my b/p was 144/73 and then 144/68. They ended up doing a very, very quick ultrasound, monitored LO's heart rate, and did blood work. My platelets were low but other than that, everything else looked great. They did make me monitor my blood pressure twice a day until Friday, however this morning it was 134/88 and this afternoon it was 144/94, so they're making me go back tomorrow to repeat all of the tests. I've had swelling most of this pregnancy (I had to quit wearing my wedding ring at 21 weeks) but this is the first time my b/p has spiked like this. Hopefully yours gets under control! I'm worried about being put on bed rest due to it cutting into maternity leave

OrangeFox · January 2016

Some good advice already. Definitely try and increase your water intake as much as possible. Chamomile or pregnancy tea, especially before bed. And make sure you're getting some walking or light exercise in.

most importantly and probably most difficult, sleep. If you're exhausted your blood pressure will be higher. When you go in for your appointment get there early, drink some water and try to zone out in your own head. Day dream about the beach or something relaxing. Take a few deep belly breaths.

Good luck!

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