What is Postpartum Hypertension?
Postpartum hypertension can occur in any woman who has given birth, whether high blood pressure was experienced during pregnancy or not.
High blood pressure usually peaks between 3 and 6 days post-delivery, however, it can still rise beyond the first week. Members of your care team will check your blood pressure regularly. They can also suggest getting complete blood work done to ensure that your organs are functioning properly.
You may be prescribed medication to help control the rise and bring your blood pressure down to an acceptable level. Once your levels are back to your normal, medications should only be stopped per your care team’s orders as certain prescriptions require a taper method before discontinuing.
Postpartum hypertension typically resolves by 12 weeks postpartum.
In some cases, when the blood pressure is still at an elevated level past 12 weeks postpartum, your provider may evaluate a new diagnosis of chronic hypertension and investigate further to determine the best treatment.