What it is
Low blood pressure during pregnancy, often called hypotension, is a common and usually normal physiological adjustment your body makes to support your growing baby. In the first and second trimesters, it's quite typical for blood pressure to naturally drop. This is largely due to the hormone progesterone, which helps to relax and widen your blood vessels, a process known as vasodilation. This increased blood flow supports your uterus and placenta, but it can also mean a lower overall blood pressure reading.
There are a couple of specific situations where low blood pressure might become more noticeable. One is supine hypotension, which can occur after around 20 weeks of pregnancy when lying flat on your back. The weight of your uterus can compress the inferior vena cava, a major blood vessel that returns blood to your heart. This compression can lead to feelings of dizziness and nausea. Another common experience is orthostatic hypotension, where your blood pressure drops when you change positions, such as standing up quickly from sitting or lying down.
What it tends to feel like
When your blood pressure dips, you might notice a few sensations. Dizziness or lightheadedness are very common, especially when you stand up too quickly. You might also feel a bit faint, weak, or even experience some nausea. These feelings can be unsettling, particularly when you're navigating so many other changes in early pregnancy. Understanding that these sensations are often a normal part of your body's adaptation can bring a sense of calm.
