Hypertension in Pregnancy and Postpartum: Current Standards and Opportunities to Improve Care

Hypertension in pregnancy contributes substantially to maternal morbidity and mortality, persistent hypertension, and rehospitalization. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are also associated with a heightened risk of cardiovascular disease, and timely recognition and modification of associated risk factors is crucial in optimizing long-term maternal health. During pregnancy, there are expected physiologic alterations in blood pressure (BP); however, pathophysiologic alterations may also occur, leading to preeclampsia and gestational hypertension. The diagnosis and effective management of hypertension during pregnancy is essential to mitigate maternal risks, such as acute kidney injury, stroke, and heart…