Survey of Healthcare Professionals Regarding Adjustment of Antihypertensive Medication(s) in the Postnatal Period in Women with Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy affect approximately one in ten pregnancies and often persist postpartum. Their postnatal course can be unpredictable and complications may occur, hence control remains important but is informed by little evidence. Clinicians from UK primary and secondary healthcare were invited to complete a survey regarding antihypertensive adjustment postpartum. The response rate was 101/390 (26%). Labetalol was the commonest antihypertensive used. Most participants reported following national guidelines when reducing, although not increasing, antihypertensive medications. The results suggest an unwarranted and unjustifiable variation in management - underlining the evidence gap - additional research is needed to inform the standardisation of care.