Evaluation of a postpartum cardiovascular risk clinic after hypertensive disorder of pregnancy: First-year experience

Background Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy increase future cardiovascular risk. The Clinique Santé Globale PostPartum (CSGPP) was created to assess risk, provide lifestyle counseling, and inform primary care providers. This study was meant to assess its relevance, efficacy, and women's satisfaction to optimize the clinic. Methods This descriptive, single-center prospective cohort study was conducted at the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke. Women were recruited at their first CSGPP visit. Data on attendance, lifestyle behaviors, motivation, follow-up with primary care providers, and satisfaction were collected at baseline and 12 months postpartum. Results Of 104 referrals, 84 women (80.8%) attended the first visit, 65 agreed to participate, and 47 completed follow-up. Belief in the health benefits of lifestyle changes increased ( P = .007), and satisfaction with the clinic was high. Conclusion Given the high adherence and satisfaction with the clinic, these findings support expanding access to the clinic to all conditions increasing CVD in this young population.