Blood pressure is a measure of the force exerted by blood against the walls of the arteries. It is expressed in two numbers: systolic blood pressure, which is the pressure when the heart beats, and diastolic blood pressure, which is the pressure when the heart rests between beats. A good blood pressure for a woman is generally considered to be 120/80 mmHg or lower.
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other health problems. It is important for women to know their blood pressure numbers and to take steps to lower their blood pressure if it is high.