Low blood pressure

Stifler's - posted on 12/08/2010 ( 1 mom has responded )

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I have low blood pressure, apparently. I pass out heaps and my doctors (all 5 or so at the place I go to) just say that and the headache I always seem to have are just low blood pressure. Does anyone else get this? What does your doctor say? Mine say that I just shouldn't stand in the same place for too long but I walk around when it happens and it does nothing I still can't hear and everything is black and I need to sit down. The midwives also say it's normal but it sucks.

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Kathryn - posted on 12/09/2010

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Here i what I have read up on low blood pressure while pregnant...

Some women experience low blood pressure during their pregnancy-especially during the first 24 weeks. Low blood pressure is known as hypotension and does not usually occur until the second trimester. Hypotension often causes pregnant women to feel dizzy and there are three common reasons for hypotension during pregnancy.

The first cause of low blood pressure during pregnancy lies within the circulatory system. Because your baby depends on you for an adequate blood supply, the circulatory system has to expand quickly to accomodate the needs of your baby. This can cause low blood pressure until the fetus's system is fully developed.

One other cause of low blood pressure in pregnancy is when the growing uterus puts pressure on the aorta and vena cava. This occurs when you are laying down and you can prevent it by laying on your side. It is best to stay off of your back while sleeping.

Another cause of low pressure during pregnancy is rising quickly from a sitting, kneeling or squatting position. Your blood pressure drops when you rise rapidly, as blood leaves your brain due to gravity. You can prevent the problem by rising slowly from a sitting or lying position.

Women that suffer from low blood pressure might feel dizzy, fatigued, depressed, cold, nauseas and thirsty. Pregnant women might also suffer from fainting, rapid breathing, blurred vision and low concentration. Your caregiver will check your blood pressure at each prenatal visit. While it is common for blood pressure readings to be slightly different over a period of time, your doctor will mark any sufficient changes within your readings and treat your condition accordingly. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and increase blood volume.

Hope this helps.