HOME BLOOD PRESSURE MEASUREMENT AND E-HEALTH DURING PREGNANCY: PRACTICE AND EXPERIENCE WITH THE HY-RESULT SYSTEM

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the practice and the experience of pregnant women using the Hy-Result app. Design and method: Descriptive, multicentric study conducted in France Overall, 10 centers were included (5 maternity units, 2 ESH excellence hypertension centers, 1 primary care center, 2 patients’ associations network). Women were asked to measure the BP, use the app, share their report to the investigator and reply to on-line questionnaires (Q1, Q2, Q 3). Results: Among the 107 women included in the study, 82 (77%) responded after using successfully the Hy-Result system. Among them, 72 participants shared to the investigator their PDF report by email. Of these, 95% declared the software was easy or very easy to use; 93% believe the software helps them better monitor their BP; 94% that the color code classification was clear; 93 % affirmed that the app helped them when consulting their physician for their BP evaluation. Majority (87%) perceived the software to be reliable. Furthermore, 87 % said they trust the system and 62 % declared that performing HBPM and self-interpret their readings was reassuring whereas 7% felt that is was a concern. Out of the 72 e-mailed Hy-Result PDF report, 83% measured their BP 3 times in the morning, 3 times in the evening, for at least 3 days as recommended by ESH guidelines. Sixty-four women answered to Q3 after giving birth. Among them, 75% shared their BP reports with their doctor or midwife (even when their measurements were in the Green; 8% only when their measurements were in the Orange or Red). After delivery, 48% women continue to self-monitor their BP, half of them upon their physician’s request and the others by their own initiative). When analyzing the responses to Q 2, we found that 68% women declared that the software helps me talk to my doctor or midwife about my BP readings. Conclusions: HBPM with self-interpretation of the BP readings using the Hy-Result software is feasible during pregnancy. The use of this coaching app by pregnant women may be recommended in common practice by healthcare professionals and patient associations.