Beta-blockers are a type of prescription medication that helps to reduce high blood pressure. The “blocking” in the name comes from the drug’s ability to block the effects of the hormone epinephrine (aka adrenaline). That makes your heart beat slowly, which in turn reduces blood pressure. It also helps to widen your blood vessels, so more blood can flow though your body. High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs in about 6 to 8 percent of all pregnancies in the US, so plenty of moms-to-be may be prescribed antihypertensive drugs such as beta-blockers to manage this condition during pregnancy. Beta-blockers are generally considered safe for use during pregnancy in helping to reduce high blood pressure and aren’t thought to affect your ability to get pregnant.
Please note: The Bump and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such. You should always consult with a qualified physician or health professional about your specific circumstances.
Plus, more from The Bump:
Trying to Get Pregnant
