How is gestational hypertension diagnosed?

Gestational hypertension is diagnosed based on specific criteria related to blood pressure readings. The correct diagnosis involves measuring blood pressure readings that are consistently above 140/90 mmHg, occurring after the 20th week of pregnancy. This timeframe is crucial, as gestational hypertension specifically pertains to hypertension that develops as a result of pregnancy.

Monitoring blood pressure is essential because elevated readings can indicate potential complications for both the mother and fetus, necessitating careful management. Weight checks alone are not sufficient for diagnosing gestational hypertension since hypertension is not merely related to weight. Similarly, a metabolic panel would not provide relevant information for diagnosing this condition, since it primarily evaluates metabolic processes and the overall health of organ systems, rather than blood pressure. Reporting symptoms like headaches or swelling can be part of the overall assessment but do not constitute a diagnostic criterion on their own. Thus, the definitive diagnosis hinges on the specific blood pressure readings mentioned in the correct response.