High blood pressure developed during pregnancy indicates a condition called pregnancy-induced hypertension. Certain medical conditions may cause pregnancy-induced hypertension, although the exact cause remains unknown. Many pregnant women with high blood pressure have healthy babies without serious problems; however, high blood pressure during pregnancy can place the woman and baby at risk for severe problems.
Autoimmune Disorders
Although the exact causes of pregnancy-induced hypertension are unknown, a possible cause may be a problem with the immune system, states the Mayo Clinic. Certain autoimmune disorders such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, scleroderma or blood diseases are causes of pregnancy-induced hypertension.
Blood Vessel Problems
Blood vessel problems or damage from a prior illness or from high blood pressure experienced before pregnancy, often causes pregnancy-induced hypertension, states the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. The heart pumps blood rich in oxygen throughout the body. With high blood pressure, the blood vessels are narrowed and often damaged, making the flow of blood tighter through the vessels and increases the pressure on the vessels. Chronic hypertension results and may affect the growth of the fetus during pregnancy by not allowing an adequate amount of blood flow. The fetus receives less of the oxygen and nutrients it needs.
Kidney Disease
Women with kidney diseases often develop pregnancy-induced hypertension. High blood pressure during pregnancy may cause additional harm on a woman's kidneys and she may develop the condition called preeclampsia, states the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Preeclampsia occurs from high blood pressure and typically starts after the 20 week in pregnancy. The kidneys are stressed, which results in an increased amount of protein in the urine. Other signs of preeclampsia include headaches, visual problems, rapid weight gain and swelling of the hands and face.
Diet
According to the Mayo Clinic, a poor diet causes pregnancy-induced hypertension. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends cutting back on processed foods and refined sugars, and cutting out caffeine, alcohol and any medications that are not prescribed by a doctor. Practicing lifestyle changes such as limiting the intake of salt, participating in regular physical activities and losing weight if overweight are helpful in regulating and keeping a healthy diet and blood pressure.
Prior Pregnancies With the Condition
Women with a history of pregnancy-induced hypertension in previous pregnancies are at an increased risk for pregnancy-induced hypertension in future pregnancies, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center.
