Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: advances in understanding and management.

Abstract

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs) are the leading cause of global maternal mortality and morbidity. Moreover, HDP is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease later in the lives of affected women. The prevalence of hypertension during pregnancy is expected to increase as women's age at first pregnancy rises, as does the prevalence of cardiovascular comorbidities such as obesity, maternal diabetes, and hypertension. Due to a lack of data, there has been controversy over the optimal treatment for HDP. The purpose of this review is to address the management of HDP in pregnant women before, during, and after pregnancy as well as its definition and pathophysiology, including recent trials and updated guidelines.