Hypertension in pregnancy can harm both mother and fetus, and women with chronic hypertension are more likely to experience preeclampsia (17% to 25% vs 3% to 5% in the general population).
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Age, preconception weight and health status, access to timely and appropriate health care, and poverty are some of the numerous factors affecting maternal health and the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy. Referral to the RDN and/or social worker may assure appropriate care will be available, given the aforementioned factors that can influence maternal and fetal outcomes.