What Does Low Blood Pressure Mean in Pregnancy?
If you're often lightheaded or dizzy upon standing, you might have low blood pressure. Although not as dangerous as high blood pressure, low blood pressure can signal several problems in your body during pregnancy.
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Definition
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Generally, your blood pressure is considered low when your systolic pressure (top number) is under 90 or your diastolic pressure (bottom number) is below 60.
Dehydration
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The most common cause of low blood pressure, whether you're pregnant or not, is dehydration. Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water and your blood pressure should normalize.
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Increased Blood Volume
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During the first 6 months of pregnancy, you may experience a major drop in your normal blood pressure as your blood volume increases to accommodate you and your baby's needs.
Anemia
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Anemia, a condition caused by inadequate iron intake, is an extremely common condition in pregnancy, with nearly 80% of women experiencing it during pregnancy, according to RXMed. Taking a prenatal vitamin with iron, eating iron-rich foods or including an additional iron supplement (if approved by your obstetrician) can help treat anemia.
Poor Circulation
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During the last trimester, the weight of your baby on your abdomen can cause poor blood flow, leading to low blood pressure, varicose veins and fatigue. Resting frequently, particularly by lying on your left side, can ease the strain on your circulatory system and help restore proper circulation.
Diagnosis
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Proper prenatal care is the most important factor in detecting and treating low blood pressure. Your doctor will monitor your blood pressure at each prenatal visit through a painless and noninvasive arm cuff that measures your current blood pressure. These screenings will allow her to determine if you are experiencing low blood pressure typical of pregnancy or have an underlying condition that requires additional treatment. If you are concerned about your blood pressure, most pharmacies have free machines to measure your blood pressure and explain what it means. While these are no substitute for your doctor's care, they allow you to self-monitor between prenatal checkups.
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