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St. Maarten Medical Center
Obstertrics and Gynecology Ward
Extension numbers for our affiliated:
Dr. Alfredo Callo1316
Dr. Dorette Courtar1316
Ms. Regina Janga1301
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A diagnosis of gestational hypertension is made when a woman develops high blood pressure as a result of pregnancy.
Pregnant women need to have their blood pressure monitored regularly throughout the pregnancy. Gestational hypertension can develop into preeclampsia.
Preeclampsia during pregnancy is a serious condition which can be life threatening for the fetus and the mother. The mother's brain, kidneys and liver can be affected. Delivering the baby is the only "cure" for preeclampsia, or the more serious condition known as eclampsia.
Preeclampsia is also known as toxemia. Women with gestational hypertension require regular medical monitoring. Blood pressure medication side effects are worth enduring for the sake of allowing the fetus more time to develop.
While gestational hypertension is a condition that requires medical intervention, dietary changes can also be helpful in controlling high blood pressure.
Remember that gestational hypertension is a serious condition that can threaten the life and health of both mother and child. Do not try to manage this condition on your own!
1. Eat 4 or 5 servings of vegetables each day.
2. Eat 4 or 5 servings of fruit each day.
3. Have 2 or 3 servings of fat free or low fat dairy products a day.
4. Limit fish, poultry and meat to two 3 ounce servings per day.
5. Have 4 or 5 servings of legumes, seeds or nuts each week.
6. Limit sweets and added sugar to 5 servings per week.
7. Healthy fats should be limited to 2-3 servings per day. Avoid animal fat.
8. Eat 7 to 8 servings of whole grains each day.
9. Reduce sodium intake. Read labels. There is a lot of hidden sodium (salt) in prepared foods of all kinds.