Background
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) affect 5-10% of pregnant women and are associated with long-term cardiovascular morbidity. Despite this, women remain under-informed of the associated risks and recommended care post-HDP. This study aimed to evaluate the usability of a tailored post-HDP education package and assess knowledge change regarding post-HDP health from baseline to twelve months postpartum.
Methods
Participants were women with recent HDP (<4 months postpartum) at St George and Liverpool Hospital. After a baseline survey assessing knowledge regarding HDP effects on long-term health, women gained access to an educational website with targeted, evidence-based information and resources, with follow-up surveys 6-and-12-months postpartum. Analysis assessed longitudinal trends in women’s post-HDP knowledge.
Results
Of the total 120 consented participants, 66 have to date completed pre-education, mid-way and post-education surveys. Knowledge regarding long-term health post-HDP improved from median scores 3 (out of 8) pre-education, to a median score of 7 post-education (p <0.001). Accurate knowledge regarding timing of risk onset was unchanged, with 29% correct answers at baseline and 33% post-education (p = 0.54). Forty-six women accessed the website, spending an average of 4.5 minutes browsing. Most viewed topics included HDP definitions and HDP impact on exposed children. The educational website received overall support, with over 95% positive feedback for all components.
Conclusion
The tailored education package for women post-HDP was deemed usable and practical by study participants. Improved post-HDP risk knowledge from baseline to 12 months postpartum indicates intervention via online education materials can improve women’s knowledge regarding long-term health post-HDP.