High blood pressure in pregnancy, often called pregnancy hypertension, refers to elevated blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of gestation and can lead to serious complications if not recognized early. This condition includes gestational hypertension and preeclampsia, both of which can threaten the health of mother and baby, increasing risks of eclampsia, stroke, and fetal growth restriction. Women with severe features may experience sudden weight gain, headaches that don't respond to usual remedies, and other symptoms that require urgent evaluation.
Normal physiological changes in pregnancy include expanded plasma volume and increased cardiac output, which can mask early problems, so careful monitoring and awareness of warning signs are key. Prompt medical assessment helps differentiate benign discomforts from dangerous developments such as preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome. Awareness of these symptoms supports early diagnosis and intervention to protect both maternal and fetal well‑being.
