Current Understanding on Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are a complex spectrum of conditions that develop during gestation, posing significant risk to maternal and fetal health. This disorder encompasses gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, eclampsia, and chronic hypertension during pregnancy, with notably higher prevalence in low- and middle-income countries. By systematically reviewing latest clinical and experimental evidence concerning about HDP, this review aimed to provide a new understanding on risk assessment and clinical prevention strategies for HDP. In addition, there is still controversy over the antihypertensive treatment for pregnant women with mild to moderate hypertension during pregnancy or hypertension without terminal organ damage. It did not still confirm when to start antihypertensive treatment, the better antihypertensive target and recommended drugs. Therefore, this review also elaborated on used antihypertensive drugs and their effects on mother and fetus in recent years. Summarily, our conclusion suggested preventing HDP still requires a multi-faceted approach including diet, exercise and lifestyle habits. More prospective data were necessary to scientifically clarify preventive and therapeutic measures.