Health-related needs of survivors of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: implications for health communication interventions

Abstract

ABSTRACT Background: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) are key contributors to maternal morbidity, mortality, and future risk of cardiovascular disease. This exploratory study aimed to unearth the health-related needs of women with a reported history of HDP by inquiring about preferences for care. Method: Deductive, qualitative analysis was conducted of HDP survivors’ retrospective ‘wishes’ about the care received. Results: In analyzing 244 open-ended, online survey responses, we identified a taxonomy of health-related needs arising across the trajectory of HDP: clinical information, needs requiring clinical knowledge, such as information about the etiology or prognosis of HDP; medical, needs associated with HDP intervention and management; logistical, needs regarding practical information, such as how to contact a provider or obtain the correct medical device; emotional, needs involving a desire for support or validation; and communication, needs for improved explanations and recognition of HDP. Conclusions: A taxonomy of diverse health-related needs may assist clinicians in approaching HDP patients more holistically. Additionally, opportunities exist for health communication research to inform standard approaches to HDP-related communication flowing from provider to patient.