In plain words
Supine hypotension is the same condition as . It is a fall in blood pressure that can happen when a pregnant person lies flat on her back, usually after the middle of pregnancy. The growing uterus can press on the large vein that returns blood to the heart. Less blood reaches the heart, so blood pressure can drop. You may feel dizzy, sweaty, nauseated, or faint. Many people feel nothing, because the body adjusts. Many people find that lying on one side helps them feel better. It is not the same as dehydration, although both can cause dizziness. Frequent dizziness or faintness is a reason to call a provider.
The deeper version
Maternal supine hypotension results from by the gravid uterus after about 20 weeks, reducing venous return and cardiac output by up to about 25 percent in the supine position. Most women compensate through paravertebral and collateral venous flow, and an estimated 8 to 10 percent become symptomatic. Diagnosis is clinical: a fall in blood pressure with symptoms on supine positioning, and recovery on lateral tilt. Fetal heart rate changes can accompany maternal hypotension. Its relevance to exercise and sexual positions rests mostly on small studies and expert opinion.
Where it comes up
- Moving your body in pregnancyPregnancy: Your Body
- Sex during pregnancyPregnancy: Your Body
- Working while pregnantPregnancy: Mind and Life
What mothers here say about supine hypotension
No one has posted under this term yet.
Sources
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists — Physical Activity and Exercise During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period, Committee Opinion 804, 2020