Preconception Health Healthy Blood Pressure, Healthy You: Planning for Your Pregnancy

What is High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure can increase your chance of a high-risk pregnancy, impacting your health and your baby’s health

High blood pressure (hypertension) means your heart works harder to move blood through your body. You may not feel sick, but untreated high blood pressure can cause serious problems like stroke, heart attack or kidney damage.

5 Steps to Take Control Today

You can manage your blood pressure by making small daily changes

1. Check your blood pressure often: Use a machine at home, at the pharmacy or at a clinic.

2. Take your medicine: You should take medication your healthcare provider prescribes to you. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have any side effects before stopping the medication.

3. Move your body: Try to be physically active for 30 minutes on most days.

4. Get good sleep: Aim for high quality rest. Try turning off your phone or TV at least one hour before bed and sticking to the same sleep schedule every night.

5. Lower your stress: Practice deep breathing exercises or mindfulness. If you feel overwhelmed, seek support of your family and friends and ask your healthcare provider about your options.

Eating​ for Your Heart

Ways to Help Your Body Absorb More Iron

Planning for a Future Pregnancy?

• Continue to monitor your blood pressure: follow-up with your healthcare provider at regular visists
• Get lab work done: follow up on urine and blood t​est results
• Think about birth control: Talk to your healthcare provider about different birth control choices while you focus on your health.

For more information, go to:

• American Heart Association
• American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists
• March of Dimes​​​