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Pregnancy Blood Pressure Boosts Complication Risk
15 Jan
Summary
- A 10-point systolic blood pressure increase elevates risks for mother and baby.
- Higher maternal blood pressure links to preterm birth and smaller babies.
- Genetics played a role in understanding blood pressure's pregnancy impact.
Managing expectant mothers' blood pressure is crucial for a healthier pregnancy, according to new research. A mere 10-point increase in systolic blood pressure is associated with a heightened risk of severe complications impacting both the mother and the developing baby. These adverse outcomes can include premature birth, delivering smaller infants, and requiring neonatal intensive care.
The study, published on Jan. 14, 2026, in BMC Medicine, analyzed genetic risk factors for high blood pressure in over a million European women. Investigators found that a genetically driven 10-mmHG rise in systolic blood pressure was linked to multiple negative pregnancy outcomes. This also reduced the likelihood of a baby being born with a high birth weight or being large for their gestational age.
Researchers concluded that lowering maternal blood pressure is likely to yield widespread benefits for maternal and offspring health. While the study clarifies the direct impact of maternal blood pressure on pregnancy complications, further research is needed to determine optimal treatment and prevention strategies. These findings are significant given the rising rates of obesity and later age at delivery, contributing to an increase in pregnant women with high blood pressure.
