How to Reduce High Blood Pressure While Pregnant

Many people have high blood pressure. And oftentimes, they don't deal with complications. However, if you're pregnant, having high blood pressure can lead to serious problems. If your blood pressure continues to increase, this can result in pre-eclampsia, a potentially life-threatening condition. For this reason, expecting mothers are often interested in ways to reduce high blood pressure while pregnant.

Things You'll Need

• Medication

Instructions

1. Take a safe medication. Some blood pressure medications aren't safe during pregnancy. These include medications with ACE inhibitors and beta blockers. Talk to your doctor about Methyldopa, which is safe to take while pregnant.

2. Get plenty of rest. Sleeping at least eight hours a night contributes to low blood pressure. If necessary, take a nap or periodic breaks throughout the day.

3. Eat a healthy diet. Eliminate fatty and fried foods from your diet and eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Eat four to six small meals throughout the day, and take a pre-natal vitamin to receive your daily supply of nutrients and minerals.

4. Reduce your salt intake. Salt increases your blood pressure. Limit your intake of processed or canned foods, and drink plenty of water to flush excess sodium from your body.

5. Participate in low-impact exercises. Pregnant women should not engage in vigorous workouts. However, low-impact exercises such as pilates, yoga, swimming and walking can reduce your blood pressure and improve your overall health.

Tips & Warnings

• Stay away from cigarettes and alcohol. Smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol can affect your baby's health. Additionally, these habits can increase your blood pressure while pregnant.

Resources

• Famiily Doctor - High Blood Pressure
• Preeclampsia Foundation