If you are thinking about having a baby and you have high blood pressure, talk first to your doctor or nurse. Taking steps to control your blood pressure before and during pregnancy -- and getting regular prenatal care -- go a long way toward ensuring your well-being and your baby's health.
Before Becoming Pregnant
Prior to becoming pregnant:
Be sure your blood pressure is under control. Lifestyle changes, such as limiting your salt intake, participating in regular physical activity, and losing weight (if you are overweight), can be helpful.
Discuss with your doctor how hypertension might affect you and your baby during pregnancy and what you can do to prevent or lessen problems.
If you take blood pressure medication, ask your doctor whether you should change the amount you take or stop taking it during pregnancy. Experts currently recommend avoiding angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) during pregnancy; other blood pressure medicine may be okay for you to use. Do not, however, stop or change your blood pressure medicines unless your doctor tells you to do so.
While Pregnant
While you are pregnant:
Obtain regular prenatal medical care
Avoid alcohol and tobacco
Talk to your doctor about any over-the-counter medications you are taking or are thinking about taking.
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