Diuretic-induced disturbances of electrolyte concentration are seen more frequently in women,118,119 as is angiotensin- converting enzyme inhibitor induced cough and calcium channel blocker (CCB) related dependent edema.120 Hypertension in Women of Childbearing Age Prepregnancy hypertension increases the risk for preeclamp- sia/eclampsia and stroke during pregnancy. The choice of BP-lowering medications before pregnancy should be made based on a woman s intentions for future pregnancy, because some categories of medications are associated with various risks if continued during pregnancy (Table 4).120a,121* -Blockers, -blockers, CCBs, hydralazine, and thiazide diuretics have been used in pregnancy; all transfer across the placenta. There are no data from large, well-controlled, random- ized controlled trials directly comparing specific antihyperten- sive agents in pregnancy. 