ABSTRACT
Chronic hypertension currently affects 1-3% of women of childbearing age, and this gure is likely to show an upward trend due to increasing maternal age and rising obesity rates.1,2 Common conditions leading to impaired fertility (e.g. polycystic ovary syndrome [PCOS], premature ovarian failure, advanced maternal age and obesity) are all associated with above-average rates of chronic hypertension. In women eligible for IVF, pre-existent hypertension has implications for pregnancy outcome, as well as risks for long-term maternal and fetal health.3 Management of hypertension in patients undergoing IVF is further challenged by safety concerns for the developing foetus, as some drugs are teratogenic or contraindicated in pregnancy, and antihypertensive treatment may affect fetal growth.
