Gestational diabetes and hypertension are common complications during pregnancy, it is estimated that about 10 percent of pregnant women suffer from some of them, and although they disappear after giving birth, they are signs that follow-up should be followed after delivery, as having suffered during pregnancy could predispose to develop them later.
Given the increase in blood flow that occurs during pregnancy, cardiologists believe that pregnancy "is a stress test of nature," an early wake-up call that alerts women to their future risk of chronic health problems.
The gestational hypertension It is caused by alterations in the circulatory system caused by the pregnancy itself, and there are certain factors related to the risk of developing hypertension in pregnancy such as being a first-time mother older than 35 years, having suffered hypertension in a previous pregnancy, excessive weight gain during pregnancy, previous illnesses such as obesity and diabetes, and multiple pregnancies.
On the other hand, one in ten pregnant women suffers gestational diabetes, it is a kind of diabetes that only occurs in pregnancy, since the hormones that are secreted during that period interfere with the work done by insulin and that is why blood glucose levels are higher than normal. If left unchecked, it can lead to problems such as malformations in the baby, heart problems, obesity and can even put your life at risk.
Women who have suffered any of these conditions "have a higher risk of developing hypertension, diabetes and cardiovascular disease in the future, and should be monitored long term," recommends Dr. Monika Sanghavi, a cardiologist at the Center. Southwestern physician at the University of Texas, in Dallas.
Prevent long-term problems
Carrying a healthy pregnancy, and even a change of habits before seeking pregnancy, is the best preventive measure to avoid complications in the future. Although gestational diabetes and hypertension in pregnancy cannot be avoided directly, leading a healthy lifestyle before becoming pregnant can reduce the chances of getting it.
- Eliminate overweight and maintain a healthy weight
- Follow a heart-healthy diet
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day
- Get routine checkups
- Monitor blood pressure and blood sugar levels
