Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy

Cardiol Clin. 2021 Feb;39(1):77-90. doi: 10.1016/j.ccl.2020.09.005. Epub 2020 Nov 2.

Abstract

Hypertension is the most common medical disorder occurring during pregnancy and a leading cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Accurate blood pressure measurement and the diagnosis and treatment of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy and in the postpartum period are pivotal to improve outcomes. This article details hemodynamic adaptations to pregnancy and provides an approach to the prevention, diagnosis, and management of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) and hypertensive emergencies. In addition, it reviews optimal strategies for the care of women with hypertension during the fourth trimester and beyond to minimize future cardiovascular risk.

Keywords: Antihypertensive medications; Blood pressure; Hemodynamics; Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy; Maternal mortality; Preeclampsia.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antihypertensive Agents / pharmacology*
  • Female
  • Heart Disease Risk Factors
  • Humans
  • Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced* / diagnosis
  • Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced* / drug therapy
  • Hypertension, Pregnancy-Induced* / physiopathology
  • Pre-Eclampsia* / diagnosis
  • Pre-Eclampsia* / physiopathology
  • Pre-Eclampsia* / therapy
  • Pregnancy
  • Preventive Health Services / methods
  • Prognosis
  • Risk Assessment

Substances

  • Antihypertensive Agents