High cholesterol means having too much cholesterol in your blood. Your body needs  cholesterol to function  but too much can clog arteries and increase your risk of heart disease and stroke.

There are no outwards signs to indicate high cholesterol. However if the level stays high for a long time,  it can lead to atherosclerosis (build up of fat and cholesterol in your arteries) . This can lead to heart attack and stroke. There are simple blood test to determine your cholesterol level.

Cholesterol level during pregnancy .

It common  for cholesterol to be  high during pregnancy. This is true even in  women with normal cholesterol levels before pregnancy. In women with high cholesterol ,it goes even higher.

Hormonal changes during  pregnancy as well as an increased need for  fat from  your growing baby changes the lipid profile of your blood.

Cholesterol is necessary for the function of steroid hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are important for  healthy and successful pregnancy.

Cholesterol is crucial for the development of baby’s limbs, brain and cellular development. It is also important for healthy breast milk.

The level of cholesterol is routinely monitored throughout pregnancy.

How to manage  high cholesterol during pregnancy ?

Most cholesterol medications are not safe during pregnancy. As a result, diet and exercising is used to manage this condition during pregnancy.  Eat healthy including lots of fruits and vegetables. Avoid foods high in fat and stay active. An elevated blood cholesterol level usually doesn’t pose any harm so far as it is the result of rise in the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

If your cholesterol levels are significantly high, you may be at risk for preeclampsia.

After delivery the level of cholesterol will drop back to normal within 4 to 6 weeks.