Low blood pressure is also known as hypotension. During the first 24 weeks  of pregnancy, it is common for blood pressure to drop. This may be due to expansion  of circulation and hormonal changes  that cause blood vessels to dilate and as a result lower blood pressure. Blood pressure starts to get low during early pregnancy. It is at it’s lowest sometime in the middle  of the second trimester. Your blood pressure will return to your pre-pregnancy level after you give birth.

What are the symptoms of low blood pressure during pregnancy ?

 
Some of the symptoms of low blood pressure during pregnancy include headache, dizziness and fainting spells. The light-headedness may get worse when standing up suddenly or rising from a reclining position. The normal drop of blood pressure that usually occurs with pregnancy does not cause symptoms of severe hypotension  such as shock . However,  if you have sepsis or severe blood loss, a decline in blood pressure can result in stroke, heart attack and kidney failure.

Pregnant women who are experiencing dizziness during pregnancy due to low blood pressure can take these steps to ease the discomfort.

• lie on your left side to increase blood flow to the heart
• sit or lie down if you feel faint to avoid falling
• don’t stand up too fast when getting up from a sitting or lying position

 
NOTE

You need to see your healthcare provider if dizziness worsen or it is accompanied by symptoms such as

• headaches
• vision changes
• shortness of breath
• weakness or numbness

 
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