What is a common characteristic of a gestational hypertension diagnosis?

A diagnosis of gestational hypertension is characterized primarily by the onset of high blood pressure occurring after 20 weeks of gestation. This timing is crucial, as gestational hypertension specifically refers to hypertension that arises in the second half of pregnancy and is not present prior to conception or in the first trimester.

This condition is distinct from chronic hypertension, which exists before pregnancy. The diagnosis requires the elevation of blood pressure to at least 140/90 mm Hg on two separate occasions, which distinguishes it from normal blood pressure ranges; thus, blood pressure readings below this threshold do not align with gestational hypertension.

While the absence of proteinuria can also be a part of the diagnosis, it is essential to note that its presence is not a defining characteristic of gestational hypertension. The absence of any previous history of high blood pressure is another relevant detail in distinguishing gestational hypertension from chronic hypertension. However, the defining feature remains the timing of the onset of hypertension after the 20-week mark during pregnancy.