Ms. Smith, a G1P0 at 37 weeks' gestation, is admitted to triage in labor and delivery with an unrelenting headache and a BP of 172/110 mm Hg. She is diagnosed with preeclampsia with severe features. Ms. Smith says to you, "I am scared. Does this mean that I will always have high BP now?" What is the best response?
A. "Your BP may return to normal during the postpartum period. However, preeclampsia does increase your risk of future cardiovascular disease. We will ensure you have appropriate follow-up after discharge."
B. "Unfortunately, this was triggered by the pregnancy, but since you developed high BP, you will require medications from now on."
C. "Everyone reacts differently to preeclampsia, but since you have severe features, you will now be considered to have chronic hypertension after delivery."
D. "Your BP will return to normal right after delivery, and you are at no higher risk than the regular population to be diagnosed with ongoing hypertension."