Studies: High-Risk Pregnancies Don’t Benefit From Self-Monitoring Blood Pressure

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Dr. Christopher explains to Giddy that self-monitoring blood pressure does have other benefits

New research indicates that self-monitoring blood pressure at home doesn’t prevent preeclampsia, which is abnormally high blood pressure during pregnancy and postpartum.Giddy logo for article on Self-Monitoring Blood Pressure | CU OB-GYN | Denver, CO Preeclampsia affects around 5% to 8% of pregnant women. This condition often develops in the third trimester and can progress quickly, causing harm to both the mother and the baby. It can also cause seizures and strokes.

Commenting on the study, Dr. Diane Christopher said, “While the clinical outcomes [of the studies] measured may not have shown a statistically significant difference, we do not yet know if home blood pressure monitoring could reduce outcomes such as seizure or stroke.” She explained how she and her colleagues look at each patient’s individual risk factors, such as history of hypertension and preeclampsia, when deciding who should monitor their blood pressure at home.

“Providing a patient a cuff also provides more blood pressure readings so we can have a better idea of what is occurring over time,” said Dr. Christopher. “Some patients can experience ‘white coat’ syndrome where a person’s blood pressure is higher in the doctor’s office than it is at home. When someone takes their blood pressure in the comfort and familiarity of their own home, it can be more accurate.”

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