Health Tip: Control Blood Pressure Before Pregnancy

1. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) Slideshow
2. Take the Salt Quiz!
3. Lowering Blood Pressure Exercise Tips Pictures

(HealthDay News) -- If you have high blood pressure, it's important to get it under control before you become pregnant. High blood pressure during pregnancy can be dangerous for both mom and baby.

The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers these suggestions to help control blood pressure before and during pregnancy:

• Devise a plan with your doctor to bring high blood pressure under control.
• Before pregnancy, stick to a healthy diet, get enough exercise and lose any extra weight.
• Take any blood pressure medications as prescribed before pregnancy.
• Check with your doctor to make sure your medications are safe to continue while you're pregnant.
• Schedule frequent doctor appointments during pregnancy to monitor your blood pressure.
• Let your doctor know if you have any form of kidney disease.
• Let your doctor know immediately if you notice signs of preeclampsia, a surge in blood pressure during pregnancy.

-- Diana Kohnle

Copyright © 2010 HealthDay. All rights reserved.