Who is at a higher risk for developing gestational hypertension?

The correct answer identifies women with a prior history of hypertension or preeclampsia as being at a higher risk for developing gestational hypertension. This is due to the fact that women who have experienced elevated blood pressure or preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy are more likely to encounter similar complications in subsequent pregnancies, as the underlying predisposition remains.

Risk factors for gestational hypertension include a range of medical histories and personal health characteristics. A history of elevated blood pressure in previous pregnancies suggests that the body may have difficulty regulating blood pressure during pregnancy, making recurrence more likely.

In contrast, first-time mothers under 20 years old may actually have a lower risk for gestational hypertension when compared to older age groups, as younger, first-time mothers often have fewer underlying health issues contributing to elevated blood pressure. Being significantly underweight is not typically associated with an increased risk of gestational hypertension, and active enrollment in prenatal classes is unrelated to blood pressure issues. These factors do not have the same level of established correlation with gestational hypertension as does a history of hypertensive disorders in past pregnancies.