An overview of hypertensive disorders in women

Abstract

Heart disease and stroke are among the leading causes of death in the United States. Coronary artery disease accounts for 30% of deaths in women. Hypertensive diseases affecting pregnant women constitute the most common medical problems during pregnancy. About 4 to 7% of pregnant women experience pre-eclampsia, and an equal number experience chronic hypertension. Care should be taken in choosing contraception for hypertensive women and when choosing antihypertensive medications for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Comorbid conditions such as diabetes and heart failure also influence the choice of medications. As primary care providers for women, obstetricians and gynecologists should be aware of the importance of detection, evaluation, and treatment of hypertension in women. Studies have shown that women tolerate hypertension better than men and have lower coronary mortality rates with any level of hypertension. Although higher pressures are needed to produce comparable harmful effects on women, women do suffer clinically significant consequences.