Introduction: Preeclampsia is a pregnancy specific disease that occurs in 2-8% of pregnancies and is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. Increasing evidence suggests that the effects of preeclampsia on a woman’s health are not restricted to the pregnancy but that preeclampsia could represent a risk factor for later life cardiovascular disease (CVD). We aim to investigate the prevalence of CVD risk factors 10 years after first pregnancy.
Methods: This is a follow up study of the SCOPE pregnancy cohort where 1164 women were recruited in Adelaide. We are currently following up these women 10 years after the first pregnancy. Data are collected on demographics, diet and exercise. SF12, PHQ9 and GAD 7 questionnaires are used to assess quality of life, depression and anxiety. TANITA bioimpedance scale is used to assess body composition. Central blood pressure and augmentation index are measured using USCOM BP+. Cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance are measured using USCOM 1A. Microvascular function is assessed by Post Occlusive Reactive Hyperaemia using Laser Doppler.
Results: At present data are available from 9 women who had preeclampsia during their first pregnancies and 9 women who had uncomplicated first pregnancies. There was no difference in mean age (36 years in the preeclampsia group and 38 years in the uncomplicated pregnancy group) or mean BMI (30.9 in the preeclampsia group and 29.1 in the uncomplicated pregnancy group) between the two groups. Central systolic blood pressure was higher among women who had preeclampsia during their first pregnancies compared to women who had uncomplicated first pregnancies (125 ± 20 mmHg vs 103 ± 17 mmHg, p = 0.03).
Conclusion: Our preliminary results show that women who had preeclampsia during their first pregnancies have higher central systolic blood pressure 10 years after pregnancy compared to women who had uncomplicated pregnancies.