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What is Normal Blood Pressure for Women?

By Henry Gaudet
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 19,196
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As in men, the normal blood pressure for women is 120/80, or "120 over 80." Women face the same risk factors affecting men as well, such as diet and lack of exercise. In addition, women might have to contend with gender-specific issues such as pregnancy, contraception and menopause.

Blood pressure is a measure of the force of the blood on the walls of the blood vessels. The standard format for recording blood pressure is actually two readings, measured in milligrams of mercury (mm/Hg). The first number, the systolic blood pressure, measures the pressure during a pulse. The diastolic blood pressure, the pressure between heartbeats, is the second number.

Normal blood pressure for women is 120/80. In this case, “normal” does not mean “typical” or “average,” but rather the healthy ideal. High blood pressure is the more obvious risk, but when pressure veers away from this ideal, either too high or too low, serious consequences can result.

Avoiding certain risk factors can help promote normal blood pressure for women and reduce the risk of high or low blood pressure. Smoking, alcohol, obesity, and diets that are high in sodium or cholesterol can all contribute to high blood pressure, and removing these factors will help bring blood pressure down. Regular exercise is another important step in maintaining normal blood pressure.

Hormonal shifts can have an effect on normal blood pressure for women. Some women might experience an increase in blood pressure while taking oral contraceptives. Factors such as family history and weight might make this increase more likely. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is advised for women taking these tablets, and any questions or concerns should be referred to a medical professional.

Pregnancy can also cause blood pressure to rise. Women already under treatment for high blood pressure should speak with a doctor if pregnancy is suspected. Some treatments can affect the fetus, and prescriptions might need to be changed. The doctor might also recommend changes in diet and lifestyle to keep the blood pressure under control.

During pregnancy, the normal blood pressure for women can dip as well, causing low blood pressure. Women might experience dizziness, fatigue, depression, nausea or weakness, and when these symptoms are present, a visit to the doctor is in order. The doctor is likely to recommend changes to the diet, plenty of fluid and light exercise.

The normal blood pressure for women might be disrupted by menopause as well. Until later life, men are more likely to have high blood pressure than women, but women older than 65 are actually more likely than men to develop high blood pressure. After menopause, a woman might experience a jump in blood pressure of up to 5 mm/Hg because of hormonal changes.

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Discussion Comments
By Laotionne — On Mar 24, 2014

My mother has high blood pressure, but with medication she is able to control her levels. However, she does have times when her pressure still rises. This may be caused by stress. Anyway, I bought her a machine so she can take her own blood pressure at home. The process takes a couple of minutes and she is able to keep an eye on her condition and go to the doctor when her blood pressure goes too high and remains high.

By Animandel — On Mar 24, 2014

When reading this article you should note the section where it is explained that a women's normal blood pressure does not mean this blood pressure should be considered typical or average for all women. There are many factors that influence a woman's blood pressure, including genetics, so if your blood pressure doesn't fall into the normal category, this doesn't mean you are unhealthy.

However, 120/80 is a guideline used by the medical profession and if your blood pressure deviates a good distance from this range then you should consult a physician to learn why.

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