Increased rate of birth defects after first trimester use of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors - Treatment or hypertension related? An observational cohort study

Women with hypertension treated with ACEIs in early pregnancy are at higher risk for major birth defects, which may be explained by other factors associated with maternal hypertension. Women (inadvertently) exposed during early pregnancy may be reassured and treatment switched to antihypertensive drugs recommended for pregnancy.