Hypertension occurring during pregnancy can have a serious impact on the health and development of the future child. Studies conducted by scientists from the University of Helsinki have found a link between high blood pressure in pregnant women and a decrease in the intellectual abilities of their children. This effect was especially noticeable in boys, which was an important discovery in the field of medicine and developmental psychology.

The study included 398 men born between 1934 and 1944. Scientists compared the intellectual performance of those whose mothers suffered from hypertension during pregnancy and those born to healthy women. Participants were tested at different stages of life: in childhood, in adolescence and in old age, when they reached 69 years. Such a long period of observation made it possible to identify patterns that had previously remained out of the researchers' sight.

At first, the differences in IQ levels between the groups were minimal. However, by the age of 20, the gap became noticeable, and increased even more with age. The gap was particularly severe in math tests, indicating a specific effect of maternal hypertension on the child's cognitive development. This finding emphasizes the importance of monitoring the pregnant woman's health not only for the physical well-being of the child, but also for the child's mental potential.

The reasons for this dependence are likely related to the mother's impaired circulation during pregnancy. Elevated blood pressure can reduce the flow of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus, which negatively affects brain development. This effect is especially critical in the first few months of pregnancy, when major brain structures are being formed.

The findings also raise questions about the prevention and treatment of hypertension in pregnant women. Experts urge that more attention be paid to the diagnosis and treatment of this condition to minimize possible risks to the baby's health. Simple measures such as lifestyle changes, special diet and regular visits to the doctor can significantly reduce the likelihood of complications.

Thus, the study reminds us that the health of the future child directly depends on the condition of the mother. Taking care of one's own health during pregnancy should become a priority for every woman, because the consequences of neglecting it can affect not only the first years of the child's life, but also its entire fate.