A 22-year-old primagravida woman develops hypertension at 28 weeks. She is asymptomatic
and the examination is normal except for 1+ pedal edema. Her complete blood count, liver
enzymes, and electrolytes are normal. The urinalysis is positive for proteinuria. Which of the
following is true for this type of hypertension?
(A) improves in the third trimester
(B) leads to large-birth-weight babies
© should be controlled with medications
(D) spares the placenta
(E) spares maternal kidney function
© In the past, there was concern that rigorous drug treatment would harm the fetus.
Studies now show benefit in controlling pressure with drugs, but ACE inhibitors are
contraindicated because they might cause renal abnormalities in the fetus. Women who
develop hypertension during pregnancy have a higher risk of developing hypertension in later life.