What should you know about criteria for gestational hypertension?

A clinician considers gestational hypertension when raised blood pressure begins after the earlier part of pregnancy in someone who did not have chronic hypertension. The reading is checked carefully and may be repeated because a single result can be affected by movement, stress, or how the cuff fits. Assessment also looks for protein in urine and symptoms or test results that could suggest pre-eclampsia or another problem. High blood pressure may cause no noticeable symptoms, so scheduled antenatal checks matter even when you feel well.

Contact your maternity team promptly if you are told your blood pressure is high. They may repeat measurements, check urine, arrange blood tests, ask about symptoms, and monitor your baby’s growth and wellbeing. Follow the plan for appointments, medicines, home readings, activity, and rest exactly as advised. Bring a record of headaches, vision changes, upper abdominal pain, swelling, breathlessness, and reduced fetal movement. Do not start, stop, or change a medicine without maternity advice.

Seek urgent maternity care for a severe or persistent headache, blurred vision or flashing lights, severe pain beneath the ribs, sudden marked swelling of the face or hands, trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, seizures, heavy bleeding, or reduced fetal movement. These symptoms can occur with serious pregnancy complications and should not wait for a routine appointment. If you cannot reach your usual team, use local emergency services.

Ask what your readings mean, when they will be repeated, and which urine or blood results are being followed. Clarify how to measure at home, which symptoms require immediate assessment, how your baby will be monitored, and when delivery planning might be discussed.