What should be determined if a pregnant woman is diagnosed with hypertension?

The diagnosis of hypertension in a pregnant woman requires careful differentiation between gestational hypertension and other forms of hypertension, making the identification of gestational hypertension particularly important. Gestational hypertension typically occurs after the 20th week of pregnancy and is characterized by high blood pressure without the presence of protein in the urine. This condition may resolve after delivery.

Recognizing whether the hypertension is gestational helps inform the treatment plan and monitor potential complications such as preeclampsia, which can pose risks to both the mother and fetus. Understanding the specific type of hypertension assists healthcare providers in managing the condition effectively during pregnancy, as the approaches to chronic hypertension and secondary hypertension differ from managing gestational hypertension.

Determining if immediate treatment is necessary also plays a role in patient care, but identifying the type of hypertension directly influences the treatment pathways and monitoring strategies implemented.