Work

Self-reported primary preventive follow-up of women’s cardiovascular health after hypertensive pregnancy complications and gestational diabetes

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: • The majority reported a lack of cardiovascular follow-up after hypertensive pregnancy complications or gestational diabetes. • Women who had given birth >2018 had more often received cardiovascular follow-up compared to women with births ≤2018. • Several respondents stated that they themselves had to initiate, and also actively insist on, cardiovascular follow-up. • This web-based survey indicates a need for better organization of cardiovascular follow-up after pregnancy complications. Women with a history of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and gestational diabetes have an increased future risk of cardiovascular disease. Primary preventive follow-up is recommended for early identification and management of modifiable risk factors. We investigated whether women in Norway receive such follow-up. We invited women with a history of hypertensive pregnancy complications and/or gestational diabetes to a web-based questionnaire survey. Among 592 eligible responses, only 36% reported having received follow-up at one year postpartum. The rate nearly doubled after 2018 compared with earlier periods (44% versus 23%). The study indicates a need for better organization of follow-up services.

Source: Pregnancy Hypertension

DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2026.101474

Authors: Ingerid Bentsen, Åsa Waldum, Meryam Sugulle, Anne Cathrine Staff

Institutions: University of Oslo, Oslo University Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Pregnancy and preeclampsia studies

Subfield: Obstetrics and Gynecology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,150