low blood pressure

  
  I am 16 weeks pregnant with my 3rd child.  I have had both naturally, although I had severe back labour.  My concern is this.  I seem to have low blood pressure 109/53 pulse 65.  I am 32.
  I also have  a low red blood cell count and have started taking a prenatal supplement.  Is there a need for concern with this low blood pressure? I wish to have an epidural this time due to the back labour.  Will an epidural cause any problems with the low blood pressure? Will the
  baby be okay with this low blood pressure? Is there anything I can do to fix it?
Dear Tammy:
Low blood pressure is common in the second trimester (13-26 weeks) and has no significance. It does not need to be fixed. It does not harm the baby.
An epidural anesthetic also lowers blood pressure. There is no blood pressure is a normal person that precludes an epidural anesthetic.
The low red blood cell count is anemia and corrects with vitamin therapy.
This information is provided for general education purposes only and is not amedical consultation. If you have specific questions, please contact your physician.