The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers these suggestions to help make your pregnancy safer:

• Before you become pregnant, work with your doctor to get your blood pressure within a normal range.
• Help manage high blood pressure with a healthy diet, regular exercise and weight loss.
• Always take your blood pressure medicines as your doctor prescribes.
• Talk to your doctor about taking high blood pressure medication during pregnancy.
• Once you are pregnant, visit your doctor regularly to closely monitor your blood pressure, both at the doctor's office and at home.
• Talk to your doctor about kidney disease or any other health conditions that may impact your blood pressure.
• If you develop symptoms of preeclampsia -- including headaches, rapid weight gain, visual problems or swelling of the hands or face -- contact your doctor immediately.

-- Diana Kohnle