North American Registry of Midwives (NARM) Practice Exam

When does gestational hypertension typically occur?

1. During labor

2. In the first trimester

3. In the latter part of pregnancy

4. Immediately postpartum

The correct answer is: In the latter part of pregnancy

Gestational hypertension typically occurs in the latter part of pregnancy, usually after the 20th week of gestation. This condition is characterized by elevated blood pressure levels in a woman who was previously normotensive and is often identified during routine prenatal visits. The onset of gestational hypertension is particularly significant as it often precedes more serious conditions like preeclampsia, making it crucial for healthcare providers to monitor and manage the health of both the mother and fetus. The reason this choice is correct lies in the timing and development of pregnancy conditions. Gestational hypertension does not typically present during the first trimester, at labor, or immediately postpartum, as those periods are associated with different physiological adaptations and conditions. Knowing when gestational hypertension occurs helps healthcare providers focus their monitoring and prevention strategies during the later stages of pregnancy for better maternal and neonatal outcomes.