Many changes during pregnancy affect your cardiovascular system, which includes your heart and blood vessels. While some changes in blood pressure are normal during pregnancy, hypertensive disorders are among the leading causes of maternal and perinatal mortality worldwide. \xa0 Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy include chronic hypertension, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, HELLP, and eclampsia. High blood pressure during pregnancy can stress your heart and kidneys, leading to heart disease, kidney disease, and stroke. As well as increase your risk for preterm birth, placental abruption, and cesarean birth. High blood pressure can also reduce blood flow to the placenta, affecting the flow of oxygen and nutrients to your baby. You can see why your care provider closely monitors your blood pressure throughout your pregnancy. \xa0 The majority of pregnancy-related conditions disappear after you have your baby. Mothers remain at risk for hypertensive disorders after they have their baby, even if they have no symptoms during pregnancy. Your ability to recognize warning signs and promptly seek medical attention can potentially be life-saving. \xa0 Thank you to our sponsors \xa0 Did you know that your health insurance will cover the cost of a breast pump? It\u2019s true! In fact, many health insurance plans also cover milk storage bags, breastfeeding prep courses, and more. At\xa0Aeroflow Breastpumps, you can shop top-rated breast pumps from brands like Medela, Spectra, and Motif without ever opening your wallet. Fill out their quick and easy insurance eligibility form, and they\u2019ll take care of the rest! It might just be the easiest thing you do this pregnancy. \xa0 Zahler goes above and beyond to use high-quality bioavailable ingredients like the active form of folate, bioavailable iron, and omega 3s. Save 20% off the\xa0Zahler Prenatal +DHA on Amazon with the code PREPOD20. Email your order number and mailing address to vanessa@pregnancypodcast.com\xa0to get a free Core Greens powder. Core Greens contains a blend of powerful superfoods, 29 fruits and vegetables, antioxidants, and prebiotics, all in bioactive forms. You can always see the current promo code for the Zahler prenatal vitamin by\xa0clicking here. \xa0 10% off\xa0Epic Will\xa0with the code PREGNANCYPODCAST. Epic Will is an inexpensive and easy way to ensure your family is protected. Get the building blocks of an early estate plan, including a last will and testament, healthcare power of attorney, an advance directive, and a financial power of attorney. I know we don't want to think about not being there for our kids. Secure your future in as little as five minutes and have peace of mind that your family's future is safe with legally binding documents built by an attorney. \xa0 Read the\xa0full article and resources that accompany this episode. \xa0 Join\xa0Pregnancy Podcast Premium to access the entire back catalog, listen to all episodes ad-free, get a copy of the Your Birth Plan Book, and more. \xa0 Check out the\xa040 Weeks podcast to learn how your baby grows each week and what is happening in your body. Plus, get a heads up on what to expect at your prenatal appointments and a tip for dads and partners. \xa0 For more evidence-based information, visit the\xa0Pregnancy Podcast website.