Increase in blood pressure

[NP2705]

Hi all,

I was wondering if anyone had experienced anything similar. I had a blood pressure check today, 35 weeks pregnant, and my blood pressure was 152 (couldn’t see the lower number). Previously it’s been 110 or under including last week.

The nurse I saw has taken blood and a urine sample which are being tested overnight for pre eclampsia.

I feel completely fine (apart from the usual aches and pains and trouble sleeping) so I was quite surprised. She took my blood pressure twice on both arms just to check.

Has anyone had a sudden increase like this and it wasn’t pre eclampsia?

Yes, it can be something called pregnancy induced hypertension. High BP but none of the other signs of pre-eclampsia. Mine was found after my waters had broken at 38w and i went to triage to get checked - it was a surprise to me because i had had an antenatal appt 2 days earlier and my BP was fine (if on the higher end of normal). My BP was 155/110 at the time i was diagnosed.

I was given labetalol to get my BP under control and i ended up taking it until 3 months post partum as you have to come off it quite gradually. I bought a home BP monitor and had to send readings to my GP and he changed the dose based on the readings. So there are things that they can try to get it back under control.

Fingers crossed your blood and urine results come back ok!

Thank you @CrispAppleStrudels that’s really helpful 😊

I had extremely high BP throughout pregnancy but never pre eclamptic. Just keep eye on it and let medical staff know of any symptoms like dizziness or nausea. Good luck

Yes I had what @CrispAppleStrudels has described with both pregnancies. With my first it was picked up after 38 weeks then a bit earlier with my second. Never developed into anything else, however, I did have to be induced with my second at 38 weeks due to a huge spike in BP and reduced movements x

I got high blood pressure at 28 weeks diagnosed as pre eclampsia. In hospital for a few weeks then a c section. I didn't feel any symptoms but BP was high and rising and I was heading for a stroke.

It was worrying at the time but now I am healthy and so is my child.

Don't ignore it. Try and relax and if you need a c section, it's not so bad, the situation resolves and it's OK.

You are welcome! I hope all goes well. As pp have said, whilst you are waiting for your results, don't ignore any changes in movements, headaches, dizziness, blurred vision etc. Also make sure your hospital bag is packed (mine was not 🥴🫣) in case they want to admit you.

I was already due to be induced at 39w as my DD was falling down the growth charts, but maybe have a think about birth plan etc, in case things need to change in a hurry and you have to make a decision about induction or section.