Best Practices for Managing Postpartum Hypertension

Abstract

Purpose of review Patients remain at risk for persistent and de novo postpartum hypertension related to pregnancy. This review aims to summarize the current definitions, clinical practices, and novel systems innovations and therapies for postpartum hypertension. Recent findings Recent changes to the definitions of hypertension outside of pregnancy have not yet impacted definitions or management of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), though research examining the implications of these new definitions on risks of developing HDP and the resultant sequelae is ongoing. The administration of diuretics has been shown to reduce postpartum hypertension among women with HDP. Widespread implementation of telemedicine models and remote assessment of ambulatory blood pressures has increased data available on postpartum blood pressure trajectories, which may impact clinical management. Additionally, policy changes such as postpartum Medicaid extension and an increasing emphasis on building bridges to primary care in the postpartum period may improve long-term outcomes for women with postpartum hypertension. Prediction models utilizing machine learning are an area of ongoing research to assist with risk assessment in the postpartum period. Summary The clinical management of postpartum hypertension remains focused on blood pressure control and primary care transition for cardiovascular disease risk reduction. In recent years, systemic innovations have improved access through implementation of new care delivery models. However, the implications of changing definitions of hypertension outside of pregnancy, increased data assessing blood pressure trajectories in the postpartum period, and the creation of new risk prediction models utilizing machine learning remain areas of ongoing research.