What are common risk factors for gestational hypertension?

Gestational hypertension is a condition that can arise during pregnancy, characterized by high blood pressure that usually develops after the 20th week of gestation. Several key risk factors contribute to the development of this condition.

The selection of obesity, previous history of hypertension, and multiple gestation as common risk factors is supported by extensive research. Obesity increases the likelihood of developing high blood pressure due to associated metabolic changes and increased vascular resistance. A previous history of hypertension indicates that the individual has a predisposition to high blood pressure issues, making them more vulnerable during pregnancy. Additionally, multiple gestation (such as twins or higher-order multiples) leads to increased placental mass and altered hemodynamics, both of which can elevate blood pressure.

In contrast, while factors such as diabetes and age over 35 are also relevant to pregnancy complications, they are not the most directly linked to gestational hypertension. Smoking and alcohol use can contribute to various pregnancy risks but do not have a strong correlation with gestational hypertension specifically. Similarly, lifestyle factors such as a high salt diet, caffeine intake, and stress may affect blood pressure in general but are not recognized as primary risk factors for developing gestational hypertension during pregnancy. Therefore, the choice highlighting obesity, previous hypertension history,