High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy Is Rising Across the United States, CDC Reports

Gestational Hypertension Cases Continue to Increase Nationwide

A new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals a concerning trend for maternal health in the United States. Cases of high blood pressure during pregnancy, also known as gestational hypertension, have increased in every state and the District of Columbia between 2016 and 2024.

The findings highlight a growing public health issue that affects both expectant mothers and their babies. According to the CDC, the national rate of gestational hypertension rose from 6 percent in 2016 to 10.4 percent in 2024. In simple terms, about one in every ten pregnant women in the United States experienced high blood pressure during pregnancy in 2024.

Since hypertensive disorders are among the leading causes of pregnancy-related deaths in the country, healthcare professionals are urging greater awareness, early diagnosis, and effective management.

What Is Gestational Hypertension?

Gestational hypertension refers to high blood pressure that develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy in women who previously had normal blood pressure. It differs from chronic hypertension because it occurs specifically during pregnancy.

Doctors diagnose gestational hypertension when blood pressure readings reach 140/90 mm Hg or higher on at least two separate occasions after the 20th week of pregnancy.

Although some women experience only mild symptoms, untreated gestational hypertension can develop into more serious conditions such as preeclampsia or eclampsia.

CDC Study Shows Significant Increase Across All States

The CDC study analyzed birth registration data from across the United States between 2016 and 2024.

Researchers found that every state experienced an increase in gestational hypertension rates during the eight-year period.

Some of the most notable increases included:

• Hawaii recorded the highest increase at 144 percent.
• California, Colorado, Wyoming, Arkansas, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts all reported increases exceeding 100 percent.
• Idaho experienced the smallest increase, although rates still rose by 21 percent.
• Nationwide, gestational hypertension cases increased by 73 percent.

These numbers demonstrate that the condition is becoming increasingly common regardless of geographic location.

States With the Highest Rates in 2024

While growth occurred nationwide, several states reported particularly high rates of gestational hypertension in 2024.

States where at least 13 percent of pregnancies were affected include:

• Minnesota
• Oregon
• Wyoming
• New Hampshire
• Ohio
• Alabama
• Alaska
• Louisiana

On the other hand, some states maintained relatively lower rates below 9 percent, including California, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Utah, Nevada, Idaho, Tennessee, New Mexico, and the District of Columbia.

Why High Blood Pressure During Pregnancy Matters

Gestational hypertension is much more than elevated blood pressure. It can create serious health risks for both the mother and the developing baby.

For mothers, complications may include:

• Damage to the kidneys, liver, or other organs
• Increased risk of stroke
• Higher likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease later in life
• Progression to preeclampsia or eclampsia

For babies, complications can include:

• Reduced oxygen and nutrient supply
• Low birth weight
• Premature birth
• Stillbirth in severe cases

Because high blood pressure can affect blood flow to the placenta, babies may not receive the nutrients needed for healthy growth and development.

Understanding Preeclampsia and Eclampsia

The CDC notes that gestational hypertension may progress into preeclampsia, a serious pregnancy complication.

Preeclampsia occurs when a pregnant woman develops high blood pressure along with protein in the urine or signs of organ damage after 20 weeks of pregnancy.

If left untreated, preeclampsia can develop into eclampsia, a life-threatening medical emergency characterized by seizures that are not caused by another medical condition.

Prompt medical attention is essential because these conditions can threaten both maternal and fetal health.

Who Is Most at Risk?

The CDC report found that gestational hypertension rates varied based on age and ethnicity.

Women aged 40 years and older experienced the highest rates, while women under 20 and those aged 30 to 34 had comparatively lower rates.

The findings are especially relevant because the average age of first-time mothers in the United States has been increasing. According to previous CDC data, the average age reached 27.5 years in 2023, compared with 26.6 years in 2016.

Researchers also identified differences among racial and ethnic groups.

Asian non-Hispanic mothers recorded the lowest rate at 7.1 percent, while American Indian and Alaska Native non-Hispanic mothers experienced the highest rate at 13.2 percent.

Common Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy.

These include:

• Diabetes
• Obesity or excess body weight
• Being older than 35 years
• First pregnancy
• Autoimmune disorders
• Kidney disease
• Family history of preeclampsia
• History of blood clots
• More than ten years between pregnancies

While some risk factors cannot be changed, managing existing health conditions before and during pregnancy may help lower the risk.

Can Gestational Hypertension Be Prevented?

Although gestational hypertension cannot always be prevented, healthcare experts recommend focusing on overall health before and during pregnancy.

Preventive measures may include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Following a balanced and nutritious diet
• Staying physically active as advised by a healthcare provider
• Controlling diabetes or kidney disease
• Attending all prenatal appointments
• Monitoring blood pressure regularly

Medical experts also emphasize that early prenatal care plays a vital role in detecting blood pressure changes before complications become severe.

Final Thoughts

The latest CDC findings highlight an important trend in maternal healthcare across the United States. With gestational hypertension increasing in every state, early awareness and routine prenatal monitoring have become more important than ever.

Expectant mothers should discuss any personal risk factors with their healthcare provider and attend regular prenatal checkups throughout pregnancy. Early diagnosis and proper management can significantly reduce complications and improve outcomes for both mother and baby.

As maternal health continues to be a national priority, these findings reinforce the importance of preventive care, healthy lifestyle choices, and timely medical intervention during pregnancy.

Sources

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• CDC National Center for Health Statistics
• Office on Women's Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
• University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC)

Disclaimer

This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment, or guidance from a qualified healthcare provider. If you are pregnant or have concerns about your blood pressure or overall health, consult your doctor or another licensed medical professional promptly.