Can Hypertension Cause Birth Defects?

Although angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, a medication commonly prescribed to treat hypertension, have been proven to be toxic to fetuses in the second or third trimester of a woman’s pregnancy, researchers found it could be just as risky to a fetus if hypertension went untreated.

What’ the right balance? Be proactive and discuss your options with your doctor.