Quick answer
In pregnancy, 140/90 or higher is high and needs your provider's attention; 160/110 or higher is urgent. Preeclampsia can also start after birth, up to about 6 weeks later.140/90 or higherCall your provider
Two readings at this level in pregnancy or after birth need a call to your provider the same day.
160/110 or higherUrgent
Call your provider now or go to labor and delivery or the emergency room.
Types
Chronic hypertension (before pregnancy or before 20 weeks), gestational hypertension (new after 20 weeks), and preeclampsia (high blood pressure with signs that organs like the kidneys or liver are affected).
After giving birth
Blood pressure can rise in the days and weeks after delivery. Keep checking, and tell any emergency team you recently gave birth.
Checking at home
Many providers ask you to measure at home. Use a validated upper-arm cuff and write down every reading.
Medicines
Some blood pressure medicines aren't safe in pregnancy. If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your provider what you take. Don't stop any medicine on your own.
Later in life
Preeclampsia or high blood pressure in pregnancy raises your future risk of heart disease, so keep checking your blood pressure every year.
Questions people also ask
Sources
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (Gestational hypertension and preeclampsia)
- CDC Hear Her (urgent maternal warning signs)
- American Heart Association.
General information, not medical advice.