artery in pregnancy

Overview

Your arteries carry blood from your heart to the rest of your body. During pregnancy, your body changes to support the baby. Sometimes these changes put extra strain on your arteries and they become narrower or less flexible, which can raise your blood pressure. When this happens, it is called a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. It needs close monitoring, but with good care most mothers and babies do very well.

Yes. High blood pressure disorders affect up to 10% of pregnancies worldwide.

It can affect any pregnant woman. You are more likely to experience it if this is your first baby, you are carrying twins or more, you are over 35, or you had blood pressure problems before.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Swelling of your hands, feet, or face (more than usual)
• Persistent headache that doesn't go away with rest
• Feeling dizzy or breathless
• Pain in your upper tummy, especially on the right side
• Changes in your vision, such as blurring or flashing lights

Causes

Main causes

• Problems with the placenta — the organ that feeds the baby — can trigger chemical changes that narrow the arteries
• Your body's blood-making system works harder during pregnancy, increasing pressure on artery walls
• The immune system may react differently to the pregnancy and affect blood vessel health

Risk factors

• First pregnancy
• Previous pregnancy with high blood pressure
• Family history of preeclampsia or high blood pressure
• Being over 35
• Carrying more than one baby
• Pre-existing conditions like kidney disease, diabetes, or chronic high blood pressure

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Call your midwife or doctor the same day if you have a new headache, vision changes, or swelling in your face or hands.
• Go to urgent care if you feel pain under your ribs or notice your baby moving less.

Book a routine appointment if:

• Attend all scheduled prenatal appointments so your blood pressure and urine can be checked.
• Tell your care team if you have any concerns, even if it's between visits.

Diagnosis

A doctor or midwife will check your blood pressure, test your urine for protein, and ask about your symptoms. This is usually done at routine prenatal visits.

Tests that may be done

• Blood pressure measurement using a cuff
• Urine test for protein
• Blood tests to check kidney and liver function
• Ultrasound scans to check the baby's growth and fluid levels

What to expect at your appointment

If you are diagnosed with a hypertensive disorder, you will likely need more frequent appointments. This can include home blood pressure monitoring and extra scans. It does not necessarily mean you will be admitted to hospital, but it does mean closer observation.

Treatment

Treatment for artery problems in pregnancy focuses on keeping blood pressure at a safe level for you and your baby, and planning the right time and place for delivery. For mild cases, rest and monitoring may be enough. For more serious cases, medication may be used under close medical supervision.

Self-care at home

• Rest when you can, lying on your side to improve blood flow
• Check your blood pressure if your care team has given you a home monitor
• Keep a diary of any new symptoms to share with your midwife or doctor
• Avoid alcohol and smoking

Medical treatments

Depending on your situation, your doctor may recommend a blood pressure medicine that is safe to take during pregnancy. They will always explain why it is needed and how to take it. Do not take any medicine, including over-the-counter products, without checking with your pregnancy care team.

When is surgery considered?

If arteries become very stiff or the baby is in danger, early delivery may be the safest option. This might be an induction of labour or a caesarean section. Your care team will discuss the best plan with you.

Living with this condition

Living with an artery problem in pregnancy means regular check-ups and mindful rest. You may need to adjust your work or daily activities to reduce stress and allow more time for resting.

Lifestyle tips

• Sleep on your left side to help blood flow to the baby
• Break up long periods of sitting with gentle movement
• Ask for help with heavy tasks and childcare
• Take time each day for quiet relaxation

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet with plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Limit salty foods. Gentle activities like walking or swimming are usually safe, but check with your doctor before starting any new exercise during pregnancy.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Being diagnosed with a pregnancy complication can feel scary and anxious. It is normal to feel worried. Talk to your midwife or doctor about how you are feeling — they can help you find emotional support.

Prevention

Not all artery problems during pregnancy can be prevented, but staying healthy before and during pregnancy can lower your risk. This includes keeping blood pressure under control before pregnancy, living a healthy lifestyle, and attending all prenatal appointments.

Complications

If left untreated

• Severe high blood pressure can reduce blood flow to the placenta, which may slow the baby's growth
• It can raise the risk of seizures (eclampsia)
• It can affect the kidneys, liver, or brain of the mother
• In rare cases, it may lead to early separation of the placenta

Long-term outlook

With regular monitoring and the right care, the vast majority of mothers and babies do very well. Most cases of high blood pressure resolve after the baby is born. Your care team will support you at every step.

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