What does PIH mean in MEDICAL

Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension (PIH) is a type of high blood pressure that occurs during pregnancy. It is also known as preeclampsia.

PIH may be diagnosed at any point in the pregnancy if your blood pressure is found to be high, usually 140/90 mm Hg or higher on two different occasions at least six hours apart. Your healthcare provider may also check for protein in your urine, which can be an indicator of PIH.

Possible risks associated with PIH include preterm birth; low birth weight for the baby; placental abruption, which is when the placenta partially or completely separates from the uterus; and eclampsia, which is when seizures occur due to high blood pressure in pregnancy.

There are some steps you can take to help prevent and manage PIH during pregnancy such as taking prescribed medications, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, managing stress levels, and getting regular prenatal care.

It's possible that women who have had PIH in one pregnancy are more likely to experience it again in subsequent pregnancies. However, there are some steps you can take to help lower your risk such as getting regular prenatal care and following medical advice closely if you were previously diagnosed with PIH.