Virtual Cardiac Wellness Program Following Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy

Virtual Cardiac Wellness Program Following Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are now well-recognized risk factors for adverse outcomes in the postpartum period and for development of future cardiovascular disease (CVD). Postpartum BMI has emerged as a strong predictor of both short- and long-term blood pressure (BP) control in observational studies suggesting that earlier postpartum lifestyle modifications may be instrumental in future CVD risk reduction in women with HDP. While such lifestyle modifications are recognized as critical for postpartum health, implementation and engagement of postpartum women remains a challenge as new mothers face greater barriers to in-person care given childcare responsibilities. The proposed study will investigate the acceptability of a virtual cardiac wellness program and its impact on weight, lifestyle modifications, cardiometabolic health, patient engagement, and outcomes following HDP as compared to the standard of care for postpartum women at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Women with a diagnosis of HDP inclusive of gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, eclampsia, and chronic hypertension with superimposed preeclampsia
• Pre-pregnancy BMI >18.5
• Age ≥ 18 years
• Access to a phone
• Delivery at MGH and receive longitudinal obstetrics care at MGH

Exclusion Criteria:

• Moderate or severe cognitive impairment
• Current incarceration
• Pre-pregnancy BMI ≤ 18.5
• Women without a documented pre-natal weight or weight recorded 1 year prior to pregnancy
• Baseline exercise of > 150 minutes/ week at the time of study enrollment
• Not cleared for exercise by primary OB