Which class of medications is commonly used to manage hypertension during pregnancy?

Calcium channel blockers are frequently used to manage hypertension during pregnancy due to their effectiveness in lowering blood pressure and their safety profile. These medications work by relaxing the smooth muscle of blood vessels, leading to vasodilation, which decreases peripheral resistance and thus lowers blood pressure.

During pregnancy, maintaining optimal blood pressure is crucial to ensure adequate blood flow to the placenta and the developing fetus. Calcium channel blockers are often preferred because they do not have adverse effects on fetal development compared to other classes of antihypertensives.

Other medications, such as beta blockers and diuretics, can be utilized in some cases, but they are not as widely recommended as first-line treatments due to varying degrees of safety and potential side effects. ACE inhibitors, while effective for hypertension, are typically contraindicated during pregnancy due to a risk of teratogenic effects on the developing fetus. Thus, calcium channel blockers stand out as a suitable choice in managing hypertension in pregnant patients, balancing efficacy and safety for both the mother and baby.