Low blood pressure is one of the most common complaints experienced by pregnant women. Although it does not always have a harmful impact on pregnancy, pregnant women still need to be vigilant and know the causes and how to deal with low blood pressure.
In addition to dizziness, low blood pressure during pregnancy can also be characterized by symptoms of nausea, difficulty concentrating, pale face, excessive thirst, fatigue and heart palpitations. Overcoming low blood pressure in pregnant women needs to be done properly, according to the cause.
Causes of Low Blood Pressure During Pregnancy
Low blood pressure during pregnancy is usually caused by hormonal changes and increased blood flow to the fetus. Low blood pressure during pregnancy can also be caused by anemia, dehydration, lack of nutrition, infection, and the influence of drugs consumed.
In addition, mothers who had a history of low blood pressure before pregnancy were also more at risk of developing low blood pressure. Normal blood pressure is 120 mmHg at the top or systolic line, and above 80 mmHg at the bottom or diastolic line. Pregnant women can be said to have low blood pressure if their blood pressure is 90/60 mmHg.
Low or not pregnant women's blood pressure can be known by routine pregnancy checks. In a routine pregnancy checkup, the doctor will use a blood pressure measuring device to determine the pregnant woman's blood pressure.
Various Ways to Overcome Low Blood Pressure for Pregnant Women
As long as the decrease is not drastic, low blood pressure generally does not have a negative impact on the health of pregnant women and fetuses. Low blood pressure during pregnancy usually returns to normal after delivery, without requiring special treatment.
However, pregnant women can relieve the complaints they feel due to low blood pressure in the following ways:
- Drink lots of water, about 2.5 liters per day to meet fluid needs.
- Adequate intake of foods that contain salt.
- Eat small portions but often.
- Set a nutritionally balanced diet.
- Lie on your left side to increase blood flow to the heart.
- Avoid getting up too quickly from a sitting position.
- Avoid standing too long.
- Regularly do light exercise.
- Get enough rest.
To prevent low blood pressure, pregnant women are advised to take prenatal vitamins and foods rich in nutrients to prevent low blood pressure. Pregnant women are also advised to regularly check with a gynecologist.
If pregnant women feel symptoms of low blood pressure, immediately consult a doctor. Likewise, if pregnant women experience headaches, shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or weakness. The doctor will conduct an examination to find out the cause and provide appropriate treatment.
