Hypertension during pregnancy: what should you know?

High blood pressure may be present before pregnancy or develop during it. It can occur without feeling unwell, so antenatal checks matter. Your maternity team may follow blood-pressure readings, urine protein, blood tests, symptoms and the baby’s growth. The timing and pattern help distinguish pre-existing hypertension from pregnancy-related disorders and guide monitoring.

Tell your midwife, obstetrician or doctor about any previous hypertension and every medicine or supplement you use. Attend scheduled checks, take only pregnancy-approved treatment and do not stop a prescribed tablet suddenly. Rest if you feel unwell, keep a record of readings if asked, and discuss activity, food and home monitoring rather than making major changes alone. Seek advice promptly if you miss an appointment or cannot keep medication down.

Contact your maternity service urgently for a severe or persistent headache, visual disturbance, pain beneath the ribs, sudden swelling of the face or hands, severe nausea, breathlessness, reduced fetal movement or feeling very unwell. Call emergency services for collapse, seizure, severe breathing difficulty or chest pain. Do not wait for the next routine appointment.

What do my readings mean for this pregnancy? How often should I be checked? Which medicines are suitable? Should I monitor at home? Which symptoms mean I should contact the maternity team immediately?