Feasibility and effectiveness of a lifestyle intervention after complicated pregnancies to improve risk factors for future cardiometabolic disease

Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Women With a History of Preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

As a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, preeclampsia is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality later in life. Since early signs of myocardial affection could indicate a higher risk of future cardiovascular disease manifestations, we investigated whether women with prior preeclampsia have a higher prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy compared with women from the general population and to what extent chronic hypertension affects any potential difference.

METHODS

In a cohort study, women aged 40 to 55 years with prior preeclampsia were compared with age- and parity-matched women from the general population. They underwent a research cardiac computed tomography, and the primary outcome was left ventricular hypertrophy, defined as a left ventricular mass index >30 g/m2.7.

RESULTS

In 679 women with prior preeclampsia and 672 controls (median age, 47 years), we found a higher prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy (14.0% versus 6.4%) in the preeclampsia group with an odds ratio of 1.62, 95% CI (1.07-2.46), P=0.024, median of 15 years (range, 0-28) after pregnancy, after adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors, including chronic hypertension. Left ventricular hypertrophy was more frequent among women with preeclampsia with (26.2% versus 15.6%) and without (5.5% versus 2.4%) chronic hypertension, and a mediation analysis showed that chronic hypertension explained 22% of the association between preeclampsia and left ventricular hypertrophy.

CONCLUSIONS

Women with prior preeclampsia had a 2-fold higher prevalence of left ventricular hypertrophy compared with women from the general population, and preeclampsia was independently associated with left ventricular hypertrophy, regardless of the presence of cardiovascular risk factors, including chronic hypertension.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.clinicalTrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT03949829.

Beyond bereavement: Women's healthcare experiences and cardiovascular disease risk in the years after stillbirth and recurrent early pregnancy loss

PROBLEM

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among women.

BACKGROUND

Adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as stillbirth and recurrent pregnancy loss, are sex-specific risk factors for CVD. Little research investigates CVD preventive healthcare following bereavement.

AIM

To describe women's preferences and experiences regarding CVD preventive healthcare after bereavement and identify their questions to inform future research and intervention design.

METHODS

A participatory, qualitative approach was adopted, involving a Lived Experience Expert Group to plan, conduct and interpret focus groups with women who experienced stillbirth or recurrent pregnancy loss. Focus groups involved facilitated group discussion, and a nominal group technique activity to prioritise questions about CVD risk. Focus group transcripts were analysed thematically.

FINDINGS

Sixteen women participated, all previously unaware of the association between their bereavement and increased CVD risk. Two major themes emerged: women have unmet needs for supportive care after bereavement, and a cautious desire for information about CVD risk. The 'top ten' questions focussed on improving bereavement care, preventing CVD, and concerns beyond CVD.

DISCUSSION

Although women valued information about CVD risk, they were concerned about adding to the burden of bereaved women, especially in the context of inadequate bereavement care.

CONCLUSION

Gaps in bereavement care have an enduring impact on women after early pregnancy loss and stillbirth. Beyond improving women's experiences and mental health outcomes, improving bereavement care may also support uptake of long-term CVD preventive healthcare.

Impacts of Lifestyle Intervention by a Nurse-Led Smartphone Application on Blood Pressure, Weight, and Pregnancy Outcomes in Pregnant Women With Gestational Hypertension: A Randomized Controlled Trial

High blood pressure and excess weight during pregnancy can have adverse outcomes. This randomized controlled trial evaluated the effects of a nurse-led smartphone application-based lifestyle intervention on blood pressure, body weight, and pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with gestational hypertension between August and December 2023. Pregnant women, between 20 and 28 weeks of gestation, were allocated to the intervention or control group. Control group (n = 99) received standard high-risk pregnancy management, while intervention group (n = 96) also received lifestyle guidance via a nurse-led smartphone application. Intervention group experienced longer gestations (p = 0.007), higher neonatal weights (p = 0.028), and lower incidences of pre-eclampsia (p < 0.001), small for gestational age infants (p = 0.003), and preterm births (p = 0.023) compared to control group. The mixed-effect models for repeated measures showed that the nurse-led smartphone application intervention had no impact on body mass index, while significantly reducing systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements (β = -1.666, 95% confidence interval, CI: -2.814 to -0.519, p = 0.005 and β = -2.247, 95% CI: -3.349 to -1.145, p < 0.001, respectively). Both systolic and diastolic blood pressures showed a downward trend from 28 weeks (p < 0.05). The nurse-led smartphone application-based lifestyle intervention significantly reduced adverse pregnancy outcomes and positively influenced blood pressure management in pregnant women with gestational hypertension.

Women's health and healthcare experiences in the years after gestational diabetes or hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), affect a significant proportion of women in Australia, with long-term implications for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Despite existing preventive measures, participation in ongoing health monitoring remains low. This study aims to explore women's preferences and experiences regarding preventive healthcare after GDM and HDP, and to identify their unanswered questions about the association between these conditions and future CVD risk.

METHODS

A participatory, qualitative approach was adopted, involving a Lived Experience Expert Group (LEE Group) to plan, conduct, and interpret focus groups with women who had experienced either GDM or HDP. Participants were recruited through health consumer and community organisations and took part in two focus groups conducted via Zoom. The focus groups involved a stimulus presentation about CVD and GDM or HDP, facilitated group discussion about participants' health and healthcare since their pregnancy, and Nominal Group Technique to prioritise participants' questions about their CVD risk. Focus groups were audio recorded and transcripts from each group were analysed thematically. Synthesised Member Checking was used to verify the trustworthiness of findings.

RESULTS

Twelve women participated in the focus groups, with distinct themes emerging from the GDM and HDP focus groups. Participants were previously unaware of the association between their pregnancy complication and increased risk of future CVD and wished to know more. Three themes were generated from the GDM focus groups: 'a distressing diagnosis'; 'degrees of diabetes'; and 'balancing motherhood and self-care'. Two themes were generated from the HDP focus groups: 'women's concerns were dismissed' and 'wanting follow up at the right time and with the right person'. The 'top ten' questions from each group focussed on improving maternity care, preventing CVD, and (for the HDP group) concerns beyond CVD.

CONCLUSIONS

Women's capacity to engage in preventive health after GDM and HDP is influenced by their maternity care experiences and the accessibility of primary care pathways. Future interventions should focus on improving woman-centred maternity care, ensuring seamless transitions to primary care, and addressing the social determinants of health for new mothers.

Patient awareness of long-term cardiovascular and metabolic disease risks after hypertensive disorders of pregnancy in Japan

AIM

Given the increasing recognition of the importance of postpartum follow-up care for women with a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) to mitigate their future risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, here we aimed to evaluate the current status of postpartum follow-up care in Japan and explore the challenges to its implementation.

METHODS

A web-based survey was conducted using a smartphone application among postpartum women between March and May 2024 to assess their knowledge of HDP-related future risk and postpartum follow-up care.

RESULTS

A total of 880 valid responses were obtained, 73 (8.3%) of which were from women with a history of HDP. Of them, 56.2% were aware of the heightened risk of cardiovascular disease and even fewer knew about the risks of metabolic syndrome (37.0%) and the preventive use of low-dose aspirin (12.3%); in fact, 31.5% reported receiving no information about their risk or preventive measures from healthcare providers. Furthermore, 43.8% did not consult specialists or attend regular checkups after their 1-month checkup. Among women with a history of HDP, those who received information and guidance were more likely to implement behavioral changes than those who did not.

CONCLUSIONS

Patient awareness level of HDP-related risk was low and the information provided by their healthcare professionals was insufficient, indicating that postpartum follow-up care in Japan is not satisfactory. This study highlights the need for improved educational strategies and systematic follow-up protocols to ensure that women are adequately informed and supported in managing their long-term health risks.

Postpartum and interpregnancy care of women with a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are common complications associated with maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Insights gained from long-term cohort studies have revealed that women with a history of HDP are predisposed to recurrent HDP in subsequent pregnancies and face heightened risks for cardiovascular and metabolic diseases later in life. Pregnancy is a unique condition that overloads maternal cardiac and metabolic functions, and is recognized as a "maternal stress test" for future cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Pregnancy and postpartum period provide a valuable opportunity for identifying women with underlying and unrecognized cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors. Establishing an effective postpartum healthcare program for women who have experienced HDP is crucial in reducing the future risk of health complications. Postpartum care consists of supportive care for both mothers and children, including not only the assessment of physical and psychological well-being but also long-term postpartum preventive health management. Interpregnancy care is a continuum from postpartum care and includes supportive care to prepare for future pregnancies. Various initiatives across nations have been initiated to establish follow-up programs for women with a history of HDP; however, sufficient evidence of the impact of such programs is not available. Substantial challenges persist in establishing an efficient postpartum follow-up program, including educational strategies, selection of effective lifestyle interventions, and collaboration among various healthcare providers. This review outlines the postpartum and interpregnancy care of women who have experienced HDP as well as the current status and challenges of related healthcare initiatives in Japan.

Effectiveness and implementation of lower-intensity weight management interventions delivered by the non-specialist workforce in postnatal women: a mixed-methods systematic review

Lower-intensity interventions delivered in primary and community care contacts could provide more equitable and scalable weight management support for postnatal women. This mixed-methods systematic review aimed to explore the effectiveness, implementation, and experiences of lower-intensity weight management support delivered by the non-specialist workforce. We included quantitative and qualitative studies of any design that evaluated a lower-intensity weight management intervention delivered by non-specialist workforce in women up to 5 years post-natal, and where intervention effectiveness (weight-related and/or behavioural outcomes), implementation and/or acceptability were reported. PRISMA guidelines were followed, and the review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022371828). Nine electronic databases were searched to identify literature published between database inception to January 2023. This was supplemented with grey literature searches and citation chaining for all included studies and related reviews (completed June 2023). Screening, data extraction and risk of bias assessments were performed in duplicate. Risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute appraisal tools. Narrative methods were used to synthesise outcomes. Seven unique studies described in 11 reports were included from the Netherlands (n = 2), and the United Kingdom, Germany, Taiwan, Finland, and the United States (n = 1 each). All studies reported weight-related outcomes; four reported diet; four reported physical activity; four reported intervention implementation and process outcomes; and two reported intervention acceptability and experiences. The longest follow-up was 13-months postnatal. Interventions had mixed effects on weight-related outcomes: three studies reported greater weight reduction and/or lower postnatal weight retention in the intervention group, whereas four found no difference or mixed effects. Most studies reporting physical activity or diet outcomes showed no intervention effect, or mixed effects. Interventions were generally perceived as acceptable by women and care providers, although providers had concerns about translation into routine practice. The main limitations of the review were the limited volume of evidence available, and significant heterogeneity in interventions and outcome reporting which limited meaningful comparisons across studies. There is a need for more intervention studies, including process evaluations, with longer follow-up in the postnatal period to understand the role of primary and community care in supporting women's weight management. Public Health Wales was the primary funder of this review.

The effect of postpartum lifestyle interventions on blood pressure: a systematic literature review

Postpartum lifestyle modification is recommended to hypertension risk. We conducted a systematic literature review to assess the evidence for postpartum lifestyle interventions to reduce blood pressure. We searched for relevant publications from 2010 through November 2022. Two authors independently conducted article screening and data extraction; a third resolved discrepancies. Ultimately, nine studies met inclusion criteria. Most were randomized controlled trials and had sample sizes <100. In all but one of the eight studies reporting race data, nearly all participants identified as White. None of the studies reported a significant intervention effect on blood pressure. However, most interventions were associated with improvements in other outcomes, such as physical activity. Overall, the evidence for postpartum lifestyle interventions to reduce blood pressure is limited to a handful of studies characterized by small sample sizes and a lack of racial diversity. Additional research with larger samples, more diverse populations, and intermediate outcomes is warranted.

The Association between Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Cardiometabolic Health at 6 Months following a Hypertensive Pregnancy: A BP2 Sub-Study

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) complicate 5-10% of pregnancies, with resultant lifelong increased risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD). We aimed to describe lifestyle behaviours at 6 months post-HDP in four HDP subgroups, and their association with markers of cardiometabolic health. Subgroups were chronic hypertension (CH), gestational hypertension (GH), preeclampsia, and preeclampsia superimposed on chronic hypertension (CH + PE). The BP2 study is a multi-site, three-arm, randomised controlled trial. At 6 months postpartum, the NSW Population Health Survey and BP2 surveys collected lifestyle behaviours and demographic data. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, and blood pressure (BP) were also assessed. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA and Spearman's correlation coefficients were used. Of 484 women (16% CH, 23% GH, 55% preeclampsia, and 6% CH + PE), 62% were overweight or obese. Only 6% met the recommended five vegetable and two fruit serves per day, and 43% did not meet the recommended 150 min of moderate-vigorous physical activity in five sessions per week. Adherence to both diet and physical activity recommendations was correlated with more favourable cardiometabolic outcomes, including lower BMI, waist circumference, and systolic and diastolic BP. Lifestyle interventions that improve diet and physical activity post-HDP are needed to reduce BP, BMI, and long-term CVD in this high-risk population.

Pre-eclampsia and Cardiovascular Disease: From Pregnancy to Postpartum

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) complicate approximately 10% of pregnancies. In addition to multiorgan manifestations related to endothelial dysfunction, HDP confers an increased risk of cardiovascular disease during delivery hospitalisation, such as heart failure, pulmonary oedema, acute MI and cerebrovascular events. However, the cardiovascular legacy of HDP extends beyond birth since these women are significantly more likely to develop cardiovascular risk factors in the immediate postnatal period and major cardiovascular disease in the long term. The main mediator of cardiovascular disease in women with a history of HDP is chronic hypertension, followed by obesity, hypercholesterolaemia and diabetes. Therefore, optimising blood pressure levels from the immediate postpartum period until the first months postnatally could have beneficial effects on the development of hypertension and improve long-term cardiovascular health. Peripartum screening based on maternal demographic, and clinical and echocardiographic data could help clinicians identify women with HDP at highest risk of developing postpartum hypertension who would benefit from targeted primary cardiovascular prevention.

Improving Cardiovascular Follow-Up after Diagnosis of a Hypertensive Disorder of Pregnancy using the Electronic Health Record

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death among women. Sex-specific risk factors for cardiovascular disease include history of a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy.

PROBLEM

After diagnosis of a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, professional societies recommend follow-up with a primary care provider for preventative care. There are gaps in patient and health care provider knowledge of the association between a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy and cardiovascular disease. That gap has a negative effect on patients receiving recommended follow-up.

METHODS

An electronic registry was created to identify those who gave birth in our health system and had a diagnosis of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. From this, information outreach was sent electronically to the patient and their primary care provider.

INTERVENTIONS

Communication in the outreach included education on the association between hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and cardiovascular disease, the importance of follow-up, cardiopreventative strategies, and biochemical assessment. Medical records were audited at approximately 6 months postpartum to determine if patients completed a visit with their primary care provider to discuss cardiovascular risks.

RESULTS

Between May 2021 and June 2022, 15% ( n = 1,131) of patients who gave birth in our health system had a diagnosis of hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. Ninety percent of those patients who received outreach communication viewed the letter. At baseline, 16% of patients during postpartum with a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy saw their primary care provider to discuss cardiopreventative strategies. After implementation of our program, 26% of those with a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy saw their primary care provider for follow-up and discussed cardiopreventative strategies.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Nurses should ensure that women during postpartum and their primary care providers are educated about the association of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and long-term cardiovascular risk. The electronic health record may be an optimal way to ensure education is provided and follow-up scheduled.

[Follow-up Routine in Primary Care of Women after Hypertensive Disorders in Pregnancy - a Single-Center, Survey-Based Study]

INTRODUCTION

Women with a history of a hypertensive disorders of pregnancy have a significantly higher risk of future cardiovascular diseases and are therefore recommended to participate in screening examinations and counseling on primary prevention. To understand the current routine of postpartum care, we examined how many women engage in follow-up examinations and whether counseling takes place.

METHODOLOGY

Single-center, survey-based study of 113 women affected by hypertensive disorders of pregnancy between 2014 and 2019. Descriptive analysis was used to analyze the responses.

RESULTS

A total of 54% of the women engaged in follow-up. Of the participants, 47% were informed about their diagnosis in a personal conversation and possible consequences were pointed out. Of the 67 women with a BMI≥25 kg/m2, 23% received a recommendation to increase physical activity, and 13% of these women were advised to reduce their weight. Significantly more women with a higher burden of disease (BMI, p=0.027; arterial hypertension, p=0.016) and a severe form of hypertensive pregnancy disorder (eclampsia, intensive care treatment, each p=0.016) engaged in follow-up care.

CONCLUSIONS

The present results suggest that the strategies to prevent cardiovascular diseases and detect cardiovascular risk factors have not been consistently pursued. After a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, every woman should receive a recommendation to engage in follow-up examinations.

Effectiveness of a nurse practitioner-led cardiovascular prevention clinic at reduction of metabolic syndrome following maternal complications of pregnancy: a preliminary analysis

AIM

Maternal complications of pregnancy, including hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, gestational diabetes mellitus, intrauterine growth restriction, preterm labour, and placental abruption, are associated with increased risk of future cardiometabolic disease. Lifestyle interventions that focus on preventative strategies for this young, high-risk population of women may assist in cardiometabolic disease risk reduction. The aim of this preliminary registry analysis was to observe the change in maternal metabolic syndrome status after receiving a nurse practitioner-led lifestyle intervention delivered soon after a complicated pregnancy.

METHOD

This preliminary analysis included 64 eligible women who had attended both baseline (approximately 6 months postpartum) and review (approximately eighteen months postpartum) appointments at the postpartum lifestyle clinic after an index pregnancy complicated by at least one maternal complication of pregnancy. Metabolic syndrome status at both appointments was assessed.

RESULTS

At the baseline appointment, 22 (34.4%) women met the criteria for metabolic syndrome. This number reduced at the review appointment to 19 (29.7%). This difference was not statistically significant. There were some modest improvements in the individual cardiometabolic risk factors, as well as marked improvements in the women who had recovered from metabolic syndrome over twelve months.

CONCLUSION

There was a high percentage of metabolic syndrome present early in the postpartum period. The results of this preliminary analysis highlight the importance of continuing preventative care and ongoing research for this group of high-risk women.

Precision health in behaviour change interventions: A scoping review

Precision health seeks to optimise behavioural interventions by delivering personalised support to those in need, when and where they need it. Conceptualised a decade ago, progress toward this vision of personally relevant and effective population-wide interventions continues to evolve. This scoping review aimed to map the state of precision health behaviour change intervention research. This review included studies from a broader precision health review. Six databases were searched for studies published between January 2010 and June 2020, using the terms 'precision health' or its synonyms, and including an intervention targeting modifiable health behaviour(s) that was evaluated experimentally. Thirty-one studies were included, 12 being RCTs (39%), and 17 with weak study design (55%). Most interventions targeted physical activity (27/31, 87%) and/or diet (24/31, 77%), with 74% (23/31) targeting two to four health behaviours. Interventions were personalised via human interaction in 55% (17/31) and digitally in 35% (11/31). Data used for personalising interventions was largely self-reported, by survey or diary (14/31, 45%), or digitally (14/31, 45%). Data was mostly behavioural or lifestyle (20/31, 65%), and physiologic, biochemical or clinical (15/31, 48%), with no studies utilising genetic/genomic data. This review demonstrated that precision health behaviour change interventions remain dependent on human-led, low-tech personalisation, and have not fully considered the interaction between behaviour and the social and environmental contexts of individuals. Further research is needed to understand the relationship between personalisation and intervention effectiveness, working toward the development of sophisticated and scalable behaviour change interventions that have tangible public health impact.

Preeclampsia and Fetal Congenital Heart Defects

Endothelial dysfunction, impaired implantation and placental insufficiency have been identified as mechanisms behind the development of pre-eclampsia, resulting in angiogenic factors' alteration. Angiogenic imbalance is also associated with congenital heart defects, and this common physiologic pathway may explain the association between them and pre-eclampsia. This review aims to understand the physiology shared by these two entities and whether women with pre-eclampsia have an increased risk of fetal congenital heart defects (or the opposite). The present research has highlighted multiple vasculogenic pathways associated with heart defects and preeclampsia, but also epigenetic and environmental factors, contributing both. It is also known that fetuses with a prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart disease have an increased risk of several comorbidities, including intrauterine growth restriction. Moreover, the impact of pre-eclampsia goes beyond pregnancy as it increases the risk for following pregnancies and for diseases later in life in both offspring and mothers. Given the morbidity and mortality associated with these conditions, it is of foremost importance to understand how they are related and its causative mechanisms. This knowledge may allow earlier diagnosis, an adequate surveillance or even the implementation of preventive strategies.

Trends and gaps in precision health research: a scoping review

OBJECTIVE

To determine progress and gaps in global precision health research, examining whether precision health studies integrate multiple types of information for health promotion or restoration.

DESIGN

Scoping review.

DATA SOURCES

Searches in Medline (OVID), PsycINFO (OVID), Embase, Scopus, Web of Science and grey literature (Google Scholar) were carried out in June 2020.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Studies should describe original precision health research; involve human participants, datasets or samples; and collect health-related information. Reviews, editorial articles, conference abstracts or posters, dissertations and articles not published in English were excluded.

DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS

The following data were extracted in independent duplicate: author details, study objectives, technology developed, study design, health conditions addressed, precision health focus, data collected for personalisation, participant characteristics and sentence defining 'precision health'. Quantitative and qualitative data were summarised narratively in text and presented in tables and graphs.

RESULTS

After screening 8053 articles, 225 studies were reviewed. Almost half (105/225, 46.7%) of the studies focused on developing an intervention, primarily digital health promotion tools (80/225, 35.6%). Only 28.9% (65/225) of the studies used at least four types of participant data for tailoring, with personalisation usually based on behavioural (108/225, 48%), sociodemographic (100/225, 44.4%) and/or clinical (98/225, 43.6%) information. Participant median age was 48 years old (IQR 28-61), and the top three health conditions addressed were metabolic disorders (35/225, 15.6%), cardiovascular disease (29/225, 12.9%) and cancer (26/225, 11.6%). Only 68% of the studies (153/225) reported participants' gender, 38.7% (87/225) provided participants' race/ethnicity, and 20.4% (46/225) included people from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. More than 57% of the articles (130/225) have authors from only one discipline.

CONCLUSIONS

Although there is a growing number of precision health studies that test or develop interventions, there is a significant gap in the integration of multiple data types, systematic intervention assessment using randomised controlled trials and reporting of participant gender and ethnicity. Greater interdisciplinary collaboration is needed to gather multiple data types; collectively analyse big and complex data; and provide interventions that restore, maintain and/or promote good health for all, from birth to old age.

Barriers and facilitators to a healthy lifestyle in postpartum women: A systematic review of qualitative and quantitative studies in postpartum women and healthcare providers

A healthy postpartum lifestyle is vital for the promotion of optimal maternal health, return to pre-pregnancy weight and prevention of postpartum weight retention, but barriers exist. We performed a systematic review that aimed to describe the barriers and facilitators to a healthy lifestyle in the first 2 years postpartum from the perspectives of women and healthcare providers. Databases were searched for eligible studies published up to 26 August 2019. Following thematic analysis, identified themes were mapped to the Theoretical Domains Framework and the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation and Behaviour model. We included 28 qualitative and quantitative studies after screening 15,643 citations and 246 full texts. We identified barriers and facilitators relating to capability (e.g., lack of knowledge regarding benefits of lifestyle behaviours; limitations in healthcare providers' skills in providing lifestyle support), opportunity (e.g., social support from partners, family, friends and healthcare providers; childcare needs) and motivation (e.g., identifying benefits of exercise and perception of personal health; enjoyment of the activity or food). We suggest intervention components to include in lifestyle interventions for postpartum women based on the identified themes. Our findings provide evidence to inform the development of interventions to support postpartum women in adopting and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Postpartum complications increased in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

BACKGROUND

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome are at a higher risk of cardiometabolic and psychiatric comorbidities and preconception and antepartum complications, but the impact of polycystic ovary syndrome during the postpartum period is unknown.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the risk of postpartum cardiovascular disease complications and perinatal and postpartum depression.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study conducted using a United States insurance claims database. Women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome aged 18 to 50 years enrolled continuously in a single health plan during the preconception, antepartum, and postpartum periods between 2000 and 2016 were included. The primary outcome was postpartum cardiovascular disease and depression (perinatal and postpartum). Multivariable logistic regression was used to adjust for covariates including age, geographic location, preterm delivery, assisted reproductive technology use, multiple births, prepregnancy depression, prepregnancy diabetes, prepregnancy hypertension, gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, obesity, history of hyperlipidemia, smoking, and race.

RESULTS

We identified 42,391 unique women with polycystic ovary syndrome and 795,480 women without polycystic ovary syndrome. In multivariable models, women with polycystic ovary syndrome had significantly higher odds of cardiovascular disease complications, including postpartum preeclampsia (adjusted odds ratio, 1.30; 95% confidence interval, 1.17-1.45), eclampsia (adjusted odds ratio, 1.45; 95% confidence interval, 1.14-1.86) cardiomyopathy (adjusted odds ratio, 1.26; 95% confidence interval, 1.03-1.54), hypertensive heart disease (adjusted odds ratio, 1.32: 95% confidence interval, 1.07-1.64), thrombotic disease (adjusted odds ratio, 1.50; 95% confidence interval, 1.20-1.87), congestive heart failure (adjusted odds ratio, 1.35; 95% confidence interval, 1.13-1.61), and cerebrovascular accidents (adjusted odds ratio, 1.21; 95% confidence interval, 1.14-1.29), than those without polycystic ovary syndrome, as well as both perinatal (adjusted odds ratio, 1.27; 95% confidence interval, 1.22-1.33) and postpartum depression (adjusted odds ratio, 1.46; 95% confidence interval, 1.36-1.57). Nonobese women with polycystic ovary syndrome had higher odds of postpartum eclampsia (adjusted odds ratio 1.72; 95% confidence interval, 1.31-2.26), peripartum cardiomyopathy (adjusted odds ratio, 1.43; 95% confidence interval, 1.14-1.79), and cerebrovascular accidents (adjusted odds ratio, 1.28; 95% confidence interval, 1.19-1.38) than nonobese women without polycystic ovary syndrome. In the group of women without prepregnancy depression, the odds of perinatal depression (adjusted odds ratio, 1.32; 95% confidence interval, 1.26-1.39) and postpartum depression (adjusted odds ratio, 1.50; 95% confidence interval, 1.39-1.62) were higher in women with polycystic ovary syndrome than those without polycystic ovary syndrome.

CONCLUSION

In a large United States cohort, our study found that women with polycystic ovary syndrome are at increased risk of both cardiovascular and psychiatric complications during the postpartum period. Polycystic ovary syndrome should be recognized as an at-risk condition; our findings underscore the need for routine screening and early interventions for these major comorbidities.

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes in Women with Previous Gestational Diabetes: Reviewing the Implementation Gaps for Health Behavior Change Programs

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) places a woman at high risk of developing subsequent type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), particularly in the first 5 years postpartum. Engaging women in health behavior change during this period is challenging and current diabetes prevention programs were developed for middle-aged adults, all of which have limited the evidence on successful implementation for this high-risk population. In this review, we will first summarize the effects of existing diabetes prevention programs in women with a history of GDM. Second, we suggest that the programs need to be modified according to the facilitators and barriers faced by this population. Third, we propose that improving program penetration, fidelity, and participation is critical for population-level success. Finally, we outline the research priorities to improve the implementation of diabetes prevention programs for postpartum women with a history of GDM.

Maternal Morbidity and Mortality: Are We Getting to the "Heart" of the Matter?

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), including hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) and peripartum cardiomyopathy, is a leading cause of pregnancy-related death in the United States. Women who are African American or American Indian/Alaskan Native, have HDP, are medically underserved, are older, or are obese have a major risk for the onset and/or progression of CVD during and after pregnancy. Paradoxically, women with no preexisting chronic conditions or risk factors also experience significant pregnancy-related cardiovascular (CV) complications. The question remains whether substantial physiologic stress on the CV system during pregnancy reflected in hemodynamic, hematological, and metabolic changes uncovers subclinical prepregnancy CVD in these otherwise healthy women. Equally important and similarly understudied is the concept that women's long-term CV health could be detrimentally affected by adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, and diabetes, and preterm birth. Thus, a critical life span perspective in the assessment of women's CV risk factors is needed to help women and health care providers recognize and appreciate not only optimal CV health but also risk factors present before, during, and after pregnancy. In this review article, we highlight new advancements in understanding adverse, pregnancy-related CV conditions and will discuss promising strategies or interventions for their prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.

Investigating the current knowledge and needs concerning a follow-up for long-term cardiovascular risks in Dutch women with a preeclampsia history: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

There is increasing evidence that a history of preeclampsia is an important risk factor for future cardiovascular events. Awareness of this risk could provide opportunities for identification of women at risk, with opportunities for prevention and / or early intervention. A standardized follow-up has not yet been implemented in the north of the Netherlands. The objective of this qualitative study was to explore the opinions and wishes among women and physicians about the follow-up for women with a history of preeclampsia.

METHODS

Semi-structured interviews with 15 women and 14 physicians (5 obstetricians, 4 general practitioners, 3 vascular medicine specialists and 2 cardiologists) were performed and addressed topics about knowledge on CVR, current - and future follow-up. Women were approached through the HELLP foundation and their physicians. Physicians were approached by email. The interviews were recorded, typed and coded using ATLAS.ti software. A theoretical-driven thematic analysis was performed.

RESULTS

Women had some knowledge about the association between preeclampsia and the increased CVR, but missed information from their health care providers. Specialists were aware of the association, but the information and advice they provided to their patients was minimal and inconsistent according to themselves. Whereas some general practitioners regarded their own knowledge as limited. There was a clear desire among women for a more extensive follow-up with specific attention to both emotional and physical consequences of preeclampsia. Physicians indicated that they preferred to see a follow up program concerning the CVR at the general practitioner as part of the already existent cardiovascular risk management (CVRM) program.

CONCLUSION

Women and medical specialists consider it important to improve aftercare for women after a pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia. Introducing these women into the CVRM program at the general practitioner is regarded as a preferred first step. Further research is warranted to establish an evidence-based guideline for the follow-up of these women.

Population screening for gestational hypertensive disorders using maternal, fetal and placental characteristics: A population-based prospective cohort study

Objective

To determine screening performance of maternal, fetal and placental characteristics for selecting pregnancies at risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia in a low‐risk multi‐ethnic population.

Method

In a prospective population‐based cohort among 7124 pregnant women, we collected maternal characteristics including body mass index, ethnicity, parity, smoking and blood pressure in early‐pregnancy. Fetal characteristics included second and third trimester estimated fetal weight and sex determined by ultrasound. Placental characteristics included first and second trimester placental growth factor concentrations and second and third trimester uterine artery resistance indices.

Results

Maternal characteristics provided the best screening result for gestational hypertension (area‐under‐the‐curve [AUC] 0.79 [95% Confidence interval {CI} 0.76‐0.81]) with 40% sensitivity at 90% specificity. For preeclampsia, the maternal characteristics model led to a screening performance of AUC 0.74 (95% CI 0.70‐0.78) with 33% sensitivity at 90% specificity. Addition of second and third trimester placental ultrasound characteristics only improved screening performance for preeclampsia (AUC 0.78 [95% CI 0.75‐0.82], with 48% sensitivity at 90% specificity).

Conclusion

Routinely measured maternal characteristics, known at the start of pregnancy, can be used in screening for pregnancies at risk of gestational hypertension or preeclampsia within a low‐risk multi‐ethnic population. Addition of combined second and third trimester placental ultrasound characteristics only improved screening for preeclampsia.

Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy and Future Maternal Health: How Can the Evidence Guide Postpartum Management?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To review the postpartum management of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy.

RECENT FINDINGS

Hypertensive disorders are associated with an increased risk of future cardiovascular disease; however, there is a poor understanding of the underlying mechanisms and few recommendations to guide care in the postpartum period. Recent studies have shown high rates of masked hypertension and home blood pressure monitoring in the first year postpartum may be a promising opportunity to monitor health given evidence of high maternal adherence to this approach. In longer term, women with a history of a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy have higher blood pressures, increased risk of metabolic syndrome, and perhaps excess diastolic dysfunction. Triaging risk and improving handoff from the obstetrician to the primary care provider or subspecialist should be a priority in this population. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy remain an untapped opportunity to identify excess cardiovascular risk in affected women at a time when mitigating that risk during the reproductive years has the potential to improve future pregnancy health as well as improve women's long-term cardiometabolic health.

Women's Knowledge of Cardiovascular Risk After Preeclampsia

OBJECTIVE

To determine women's self-reported knowledge of the association between preeclampsia and cardiovascular disease and to determine if they received appropriate education on the recommendations of the American Heart Association for follow-up and for cardiovascular risk reduction strategies after preeclampsia.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional descriptive study using an online survey.

SETTING/LOCAL PROBLEM

A survey link was placed on the Facebook pages for two preeclampsia support groups.

PARTICIPANTS

A total of 241 women who were members of these Facebook groups completed the online survey.

INTERVENTION/MEASUREMENTS

An online survey was created using Campus Labs software. Most questions were closed response. Participants were asked to answer survey questions about their first pregnancy with preeclampsia and the education/referrals they received specific to the association between preeclampsia and cardiovascular risk.

RESULTS

Of all those who responded, 36.9% (n = 89) reported being unaware of the association between preeclampsia and cardiovascular disease. Of those who gave birth since the American Heart Association issued recommendations for follow-up after preeclampsia, 43.9% (n = 61) reported that they received no counseling regarding incorporating healthful lifestyle changes or follow-up after their diagnosis of preeclampsia.

CONCLUSION

Women with a history of preeclampsia may not be receiving adequate education on its association with cardiovascular disease. Nurses can work to fill this gap through collaboration with cardiovascular and primary care providers to orchestrate seamless cardioprotective follow-up for this population of women.