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High Blood Pressure Topics: |
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How Can Women with High Blood Pressure Prevent Problems During Pregnancy?
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:
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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. |
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Discuss with your doctor how hypertension might affect you and your baby during pregnancy, and what you can do to prevent or lessen problems. |
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If you take medicines for your blood pressure, ask your doctor whether you should change the amount you take or stop taking them during pregnancy. Experts currently recommend avoiding angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and Angiotensin II (AII) receptor antagonists during pregnancy; other blood pressure medications may be OK for you to use. Do not, however, stop or change your medicines unless your doctor tells you to do so. |
While you are pregnant:
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Obtain regular prenatal medical care. |
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Avoid alcohol and tobacco. |
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Talk to your doctor about any over-the-counter medications you are taking or are thinking about taking. |
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