While no one ever wants high blood pressure, it can cause an entirely different list of potential problems if you're pregnant. High blood pressure can lead to preeclampsia and later to eclampsia if not addressed and taken care of immediately. Eclampsia is a condition resulting from high blood pressure during pregnancy that can result in convulsions and potentially comas, while pre-eclampsia is the beginning of eclampsia and is evident by an increase in blood pressure. Harmful to both you and your unborn child, blood pressure isn't something to take lightly during these nine months, but armed with the right information this is a battle that can be won.
Step 1
Avoid stress and stressful situations if possible. Let those close to you deal with situations that cause you unnecessary stress. Schedule your days to avoid surprises if possible. If you have a busy schedule, be sure to set some time aside that is strictly dedicated to relaxation. Meditation and yoga can both be quite helpful in combating unnecessary stress.
Step 2
Exercise regularly. Many of the exercises you once enjoyed may not be possible now due to the pregnancy, but it's still important to keep moving. Consider taking walks or swimming two to three times per week.
Step 3
Eat healthy foods to avoid excessive weight gain, which can lead to high blood pressure. Try to keep weight gain during pregnancy between 25 to 35 lbs., depending on your weight before the pregnancy. Eat five to six small meals a day and be sure to consume plenty of foods that contain protein and calcium. Avoid fatty fish that may contain mercury and add more fruits and vegetables to your diet. Add protein to your diet by tossing chickpeas or sunflower seeds onto salads or snacking on boiled eggs. Don't eat until you are full, eat until you are satisfied.
Step 4
Quit smoking and avoid caffeine and alcohol. All of these things can cause problems in maintaining a low blood pressure and can ultimately harm the unborn child.
Step 5
Schedule and attend all prenatal checkups so that the doctor can monitor your blood pressure on a regular basis and help to catch any indications of elevation before it can become a problem.
