HTN in Pregnancy More Than Doubles Risk of New HTN a Decade Later

A new study has found that women who had hypertension during pregnancy are more than twice as likely to develop new hypertension a decade later. The study, which was published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, followed nearly 1,500 women for 10 years.

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The study’s findings are concerning, as hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among women in the United States. There are many risk factors for heart disease, but one that is unique to women, is pregnancy. Pregnancy opens windows to other potential cardiovascular disease risk factors.

Hypertension during pregnancy is a significant risk factor for preeclampsia. Preeclampsia, defined by the American Heart Association as high blood pressure during pregnancy, is a serious complication. In some cases, it can lead to maternal and infant mortality.

The study found that the risk of developing new hypertension was highest among women with severe hypertension during pregnancy. These women were nearly five times as likely to develop new hypertension compared to women who did not have it during pregnancy.

Hypertension in pregnancy increases cardiovascular disease risks.

Women who had gestational hypertension—a temporary form that develops during pregnancy—were also at an increased risk. These women were nearly three times as likely to develop new hypertension compared to women who did not have gestational hypertension.

Ultimately, the study highlights the importance of monitoring health, and being aware of risk factors while pregnant. Specifically, women need to pay attention to high blood pressure during pregnancy.

The findings underscore the importance of managing hypertension during pregnancy. Women with hypertension should be monitored closely by their healthcare provider and treated accordingly. If you have a history of hypertension, be sure to talk to your healthcare provider about your risks before becoming pregnant.