What is the primary purpose of antihypertensive medications during pregnancy?

The primary purpose of antihypertensive medications during pregnancy is to manage blood pressure and reduce the risks associated with hypertension. Managing elevated blood pressure is crucial during pregnancy because uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious complications for both the mother and the fetus, including preeclampsia, placental abruption, and fetal growth restriction. Antihypertensive medications help to maintain blood pressure within a safe range, ensuring the health and safety of both the mother and the developing baby.

In contrast, increasing fluid retention does not align with the goals of antihypertensive treatment, as higher fluid levels could potentially worsen blood pressure. Promoting weight gain is not an objective of antihypertensive therapy; rather, maintaining a healthy weight can be part of overall pregnancy management. Additionally, eliminating nausea is not the function of antihypertensive medications, as nausea is typically addressed through other means depending on its underlying causes.