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Published in: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth 1/2020

Open Access 01-12-2020 | Pre-Eclampsia | Research article

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

Authors: Tessa E. Dijkhuis, Femke Bloem, Lise A.J. Kusters, Sofie M. Roos, Sanne J. Gordijn, Floor Holvast, Jelmer R. Prins

Published in: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth | Issue 1/2020

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Abstract

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.
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Metadata
Title
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
Authors
Tessa E. Dijkhuis
Femke Bloem
Lise A.J. Kusters
Sofie M. Roos
Sanne J. Gordijn
Floor Holvast
Jelmer R. Prins
Publication date
01-12-2020
Publisher
BioMed Central
Keyword
Pre-Eclampsia
Published in
BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth / Issue 1/2020
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2393
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-020-03179-1

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