Low Blood Pressure in Pregnancy
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lisa Okafor, MD, FACOG · Board-Certified OB-GYN
Content reviewed against published ACOG, NIH, March of Dimes guidelines
Last reviewed:
Your health matters just as much as your baby's. If you are dealing with low blood pressure in pregnancy, here is what you need to know.
The short answer
Low blood pressure (hypotension) is common during pregnancy, especially in the first and second trimesters. It is caused by hormonal changes that relax blood vessel walls and the expanding circulatory system. Most low blood pressure in pregnancy is harmless, though it can cause dizziness and fainting.
Key takeaways
- Low blood pressure (hypotension) is common during pregnancy, especially in the first and second trimesters. It is caused by hormonal changes that relax blood vessel walls and the expanding circulatory system. Most low blood pressure in pregnancy is harmless, though it can cause dizziness and fainting.
- Usually normal when: Blood pressure readings between 90/60 and 120/80 without significant symptoms
- Call your doctor if: Fainting (loss of consciousness), especially if you fell or hit your belly
- Varies by age — see the age-by-age breakdown below
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What Parents Should Know
According to ACOG, NIH, March of Dimes guidelines, low blood pressure (hypotension) is common during pregnancy, especially in the first and second trimesters. It is caused by hormonal changes that relax blood vessel walls and the expanding circulatory system. Most low blood pressure in pregnancy is harmless, though it can cause dizziness and fainting. At First trimester, blood pressure typically begins to drop in the first trimester as progesterone relaxes blood vessel walls. This is a normal physiologic change. Stay hydrated, rise slowly from sitting or lying positions, and eat regular small meals to prevent blood sugar drops that compound lightheadedness. It is generally considered normal when blood pressure readings between 90/60 and 120/80 without significant symptoms. However, you should contact your pediatrician promptly if fainting (loss of consciousness), especially if you fell or hit your belly.
Normal vs. Concerning
By Age
What to expect by age
First trimester
Blood pressure typically begins to drop in the first trimester as progesterone relaxes blood vessel walls. This is a normal physiologic change. Stay hydrated, rise slowly from sitting or lying positions, and eat regular small meals to prevent blood sugar drops that compound lightheadedness.
Second trimester
Blood pressure usually reaches its lowest point in the mid-second trimester, often dropping 5-10 points below your pre-pregnancy baseline. Avoid standing for prolonged periods, stay hydrated, and lie on your left side when resting. Compression stockings may help if you are prone to dizziness.
Third trimester
Blood pressure gradually returns toward pre-pregnancy levels in the third trimester. Lying flat on your back can cause supine hypotensive syndrome, where the uterus compresses the inferior vena cava and drops blood pressure. Sleep on your side and avoid lying flat for extended periods.
What to Tell Your Pediatrician
- Describe when you first noticed low blood pressure in pregnancy and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if frequent episodes of dizziness or near-fainting.
- Mention if blood pressure consistently below 90/60 with symptoms.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- Blood pressure readings between 90/60 and 120/80 without significant symptoms
- Mild lightheadedness when standing up quickly that resolves in seconds
- Blood pressure lower than your pre-pregnancy baseline without symptoms
- Frequent episodes of dizziness or near-fainting
- Blood pressure consistently below 90/60 with symptoms
- Lightheadedness that interferes with daily activities
- Fainting (loss of consciousness), especially if you fell or hit your belly
- Severe dizziness with blurred vision, confusion, or rapid heartbeat
- Signs of shock: cold clammy skin, rapid shallow breathing, confusion
What You Can Do at Home
- Keep track of when you notice low blood pressure in pregnancy — noting the time of day, duration, and any triggers can help your pediatrician.
- Remember that blood pressure readings between 90/60 and 120/80 without significant symptoms — this is generally within the range of normal.
- At First trimester, focus on observation rather than intervention unless your pediatrician advises otherwise.
- Prioritize your own rest and nutrition. Accept help when offered, and do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider.
- While monitoring at home, seek immediate care if fainting (loss of consciousness), especially if you fell or hit your belly.
Related Conditions
Dizziness and Fainting in Pregnancy
Dizziness is common during pregnancy, affecting many pregnant people at various stages. It can be caused by low blood pressure, blood pooling in the legs, low blood sugar, anemia, dehydration, or the growing uterus compressing major blood vessels. While usually benign, fainting should always be reported to your provider.
Swelling in Feet, Ankles, and Hands During Pregnancy
Mild to moderate swelling (edema) in the feet, ankles, and hands is very common in pregnancy, affecting about 80% of pregnant people. It is caused by increased blood volume and fluid retention, and it is usually harmless. However, sudden or severe swelling, especially in the face and hands, can be a warning sign of preeclampsia.
Related Resources
Postpartum Recovery Guide
Week-by-week postpartum recovery timeline and warning signs.
Month-by-Month Development
Detailed monthly development guides from birth through 24 months.
When to Call the Doctor
General guide on when to call the pediatrician, visit urgent care, or go to the ER.
Frequently asked questions
Is low blood pressure in pregnancy normal?
When should I call the doctor about low blood pressure in pregnancy?
When is low blood pressure in pregnancy normal?
What causes low blood pressure in pregnancy?
What should I mention to my pediatrician about low blood pressure in pregnancy?
Is low blood pressure in pregnancy normal at First trimester?
Is low blood pressure in pregnancy normal at Second trimester?
Should I go to the ER for low blood pressure in pregnancy?
Does low blood pressure in pregnancy go away on its own?
References
- [1]American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Pregnancy FAQs. ACOG, 2022. ACOG
- [2]National Library of Medicine. Hypotension in Pregnancy. StatPearls, 2023. NIH
- [3]March of Dimes. Common Discomforts of Pregnancy. March of Dimes, 2023. March of Dimes
Doctor Visit Checklist
Bring this checklist to your next pediatrician visit to discuss Low Blood Pressure in Pregnancy.
Things to mention
- Describe when you first noticed low blood pressure in pregnancy and how it has changed over time.
- Note your baby's current age and which age-specific patterns you are seeing.
- Mention if frequent episodes of dizziness or near-fainting.
- Mention if blood pressure consistently below 90/60 with symptoms.
- Let your doctor know if you have noticed any related concerns, such as changes in feeding, sleep, or movement patterns.
- Bring a list of any questions or observations you want to discuss at the appointment.
Observations to share
- Frequent episodes of dizziness or near-fainting
- Blood pressure consistently below 90/60 with symptoms
- Lightheadedness that interferes with daily activities
Urgent signs to report immediately
- Fainting (loss of consciousness), especially if you fell or hit your belly
- Severe dizziness with blurred vision, confusion, or rapid heartbeat
- Signs of shock: cold clammy skin, rapid shallow breathing, confusion
My notes
From ismybabyalright.com — free, evidence-based baby health guides
All content follows our editorial policy and is reviewed against published clinical guidelines.
2,705 evidence-based guides6 authoritative medical sources5 medical advisory board members
Related Resources
Bottom line
Most cases of low blood pressure in pregnancy are normal. Talk to your pediatrician if fainting (loss of consciousness), especially if you fell or hit your belly.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, reach out to your pediatrician. Worrying about your baby means you care — that is a good thing.
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Related Maternal Concerns
Dizziness and Fainting in Pregnancy
Dizziness is common during pregnancy, affecting many pregnant people at various stages. It can be caused by low blood pressure, blood pooling in the legs, low blood sugar, anemia, dehydration, or the growing uterus compressing major blood vessels. While usually benign, fainting should always be reported to your provider.
Swelling in Feet, Ankles, and Hands During Pregnancy
Mild to moderate swelling (edema) in the feet, ankles, and hands is very common in pregnancy, affecting about 80% of pregnant people. It is caused by increased blood volume and fluid retention, and it is usually harmless. However, sudden or severe swelling, especially in the face and hands, can be a warning sign of preeclampsia.
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20-Week Anatomy Scan Unexpected Findings
The 20-week anatomy scan checks your baby's major organs, structures, and growth. Most scans are completely normal. When unexpected findings are identified, they range from minor variants that resolve on their own to conditions that need further evaluation. Many findings require nothing more than a follow-up ultrasound to confirm the baby is developing well.