Pregnancy is often described as a “stress test” that helps identify women who are at risk of developing chronic diseases later in life.  Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) (i.e., preeclampsia, eclampsia and gestational hypertension) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are the two most common medical complications of pregnancy, both of which were once thought to resolve after delivery of the child.

We now know that these conditions carry serious implications for a woman’s long-term health.  Women with HDP represent one of the highest-risk populations for premature cardiovascular disease.

For many women with HDP, their first cardiovascular event occurs at a mean age of 38 years old¹.  A woman who experiences GDM will go on to have a seven-fold increased risk of permanent type 2 diabetes later in life; a major risk factor for future cardiovascular disease^2.

To address this important clinical problem, we adapted our CardioPrevent® program to support high risk women postpartum.  CardioPrevent is a heart health program that helps people with risk factors lower their chances of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD).

The program accepts individuals who are at moderate to high risk for CVD. Participation requires referral by a physician or nurse practitioner, and results are shared with the referring physician to support coordination of care.

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*Actual score for program entry determined based on results from physician referral

How it works

Outreach Facilitators work with postpartum clinics to introduce systematic processes to screen women who are at-risk of premature cardiovascular disease due to pregnancy complications who can then be linked into the CardioPrevent Program.  

These women will undergo a full risk factor screening, receive tailored education and programming supported by behavioral-based counseling, frequent follow-ups, and referral and community resource linkages when required.

During the year-long program, CardioPrevent health coaches will guide and support you through a customized program plan that is based on your personal risk factors for cardiovascular disease.