# Early preeclampsia is associated with persistence of hypertension 3 months postpartum in women: an observational study at a tertiary hospital in Brazil

## TL;DR

This study found that women with early preeclampsia are more likely to have high blood pressure three months after giving birth, suggesting a need for longer monitoring.

## Contribution

The study identifies a link between early-onset preeclampsia and persistent postpartum hypertension in a Brazilian population.

## Key findings

- 62.5% of women with preeclampsia remained hypertensive three months postpartum.
- Early-onset preeclampsia was associated with a 2.36-fold increased risk of persistent hypertension.
- No significant differences in risk factors were found among participants with persistent hypertension.

## Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the persistence of hypertension at three months postpartum in women who experienced preeclampsia during pregnancy.

A prospective observational study at Hospital das Clínicas de Ribeirão Preto, Brazil, included 24 women. Blood pressure measurements and/or antihypertensive use were assessed, alongside risk factors such as body mass index (BMI), heart rate, lipid profile and C-reactive protein (CRP). Data on demographic, obstetric and lifestyle factors were also collected.

Out of 24 postpartum women enrolled in this study, 15 (62.5%) of participants remained hypertensive three months after delivery. Women with early-onset preeclampsia had a 2.36-fold increased risk of persistent hypertension at three months postpartum. No significant differences were found among risk factors for persistent hypertension.

Our results indicate a high prevalence of persistent hypertension in women with preeclampsia in Brazil. The findings highlight the need for extended monitoring specially in early onset preeclampsia and targeted lifestyle interventions.