Eliminating Severe Maternal Morbidity With Heart Health Doulas Trial to Improve Postpartum Blood Pressure in Women with Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a multi-level approach to improve blood pressure in women diagnosed with hypertensive disorders during pregnancy, such as gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and eclampsia. The study aims to reduce the risk of chronic hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and mortality by supporting new mothers during and after pregnancy. This trial is a single-site, single-blinded randomized control study in partnership with Healthy Start Inc., a community-based organization that supports families and communities. Participants will be randomly assigned to two groups. The usual care group will receive standard home blood pressure monitoring for six weeks after delivery, using clinical devices and text messaging support. The intervention group will receive the usual care plus additional support from a postpartum doula trained in heart health. This includes weekly doula sessions for 8 to 12 weeks, ongoing blood pressure and weight monitoring with smart devices for 10 to 12 months, and access to a doula-moderated social support group for six months. Women enrolled will be monitored from the third trimester through about 12 months postpartum. Assessments include regular blood pressure and weight checks, with data sent via text to clinical staff. Both groups will attend a follow-up visit at 12 months postpartum to assess mean arterial pressure and racial disparities in blood pressure and healthcare delivery. The study includes continuous monitoring and support to understand how these interventions may affect postpartum blood pressure and health outcomes.

Eliminating Severe Maternal Morbidity With Heart Health Doulas Trial