Analysis of risk factors for the development of hypertensive states during pregnancy

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the presence of Hypertensive States during Pregnancy, their evolution during admission, and the risk factors associated to their presence. Materials and methods: Analysis on the prevalence of hypertensive states during pregnancy
and epidemiological risk factors associated to their presence in 136 pregnant patients, admitted into our institution for a 3-month term. Results: The frequency of patients with hypertensive states during pregnancy, stand-alone gestational hypertension, chronic hypertension, preeclampsia, and HELLP syndrome was 12.5%, 8.1%, 1.5%, 2.2%, and 1.5% respectively. A history of gestational hypertension, nulliparity, and obesity increased the development of all hypertensive states of pregnancy. Nulliparity also was associated to preeclampsia and age <20 years to a greater risk of HELLP. Likewise, a history of previous hypertension was associated to an increase in fetal mortality. There was no relationship found of social, economic and cultural factors to hypertensive states of pregnancy. Conclusions: The prevalence of gestational hypertension and of preeclampsia was similar to other international registries, with the prevalence of HELLP being greater. Only nulliparity, a history of gestational hypertension, and obesity were associated to hypertensive states during pregnancy, nulliparity to preeclampsia and age < 20 years to risk of HELLP. Similarly, Chronic Hypertension increased the risk of fetal death.