What risk factor is commonly associated with gestational hypertension?

Obesity is a well-recognized risk factor for gestational hypertension. Excess body weight can lead to increased levels of inflammatory markers and can affect blood vessel function, which may contribute to the development of high blood pressure during pregnancy. Furthermore, obesity is associated with other conditions such as insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, both of which can increase the likelihood of developing hypertensive disorders, including gestational hypertension.

In contrast, while previous history of gestational diabetes, age below 20 years, and multiple pregnancy can be associated with various pregnancy complications, they are not as directly linked to the development of gestational hypertension as obesity is. Multiple pregnancies, for example, do increase the overall risk of complications but not specifically just gestational hypertension. This distinction is crucial in understanding the specific risk factors that affect hypertension during pregnancy, highlighting the significant role that obesity plays in this condition.