Low blood pressure refers to the blood pressure reading at 20 mm hg below the normal level of 120 or 80 and it is also called hypotension. The heart pumps blood by contracting and relaxing the vessels and the blood pressure number represents the highest pressure and lowest pressure exerted by the blood flow on the walls of the blood vessels. During pregnancy the women undergoes changes on the body to provide appropriate amount of blood supply to the growing foetus. A woman may suffer from low blood pressure during the first trimester but as pregnancy proceeds the blood pressure level gets normal.
1. Dizziness, fainting
2. Irregularity in heart beat
3. Stiffness in neck
4. Foul smelling urine
5. Lack of concentration
6. Depression
7. Blurred vision
8. Pale skin
9. Increase in thirst
1. Low blood pressure is caused in pregnant women due to the increase in the size of uterus, which increases the pressure on the large blood vessels such as aorta and vena cava, and the blood needs more pressure to get back to heart for pumping. It is mostly caused when the women lie down on her back. It is called supine hypertensive syndrome.
2. Heart problem can cause low blood pressure. The problems in the valves can cause a condition called Bradycardia, which can even cause heart failure. It can happen even if you are not pregnant.
3. Overactive endocrine glands or insufficient secretion of hormones can cause low blood pressure.
4. A cause of low blood pressure in pregnant women is sudden change in posture. Women who stand suddenly after sitting for long can suffer from low blood pressure, which is caused because the blood leaves the brain as the centre of gravity changes. To prevent it, one should not get up or stand in a jerk during pregnancy.
5. Women can suffer from low blood sugar or high blood sugar, and it can cause dizziness or fainting. A highly nutritional diet is recommended to prevent deficiency of minerals and vitamins. One should take regular meals or take small meals five to six times in a day to get complete nutrition.
6. Dehydration can cause reduction in blood pressure and one should take plenty of fluid to prevent dehydration.
7. It can also be caused by anaemia and one should iron supplements to increase red blood cell count.
1. Hypotension during pregnancy may not require any treatment but if it is causing blood pooling in legs or vision problem, consult a doctor.
2. To treat hypotension increase the level of salt intake and you can contact the healthcare provider to know about the exact amount of salt intake.
3. Increase water intake and fluids to prevent dehydration as it will increase blood volume.
4. Lie on one side and do not lie on back.
5. Prevent accumulation of blood in legs. Exercising helps in increasing the blood circulation but it should be done under the guidance of an expert.
6. Before taking any medicines for low blood pressure during pregnancy, one should contact an expert.
