Partnering to Improve Postpartum Cardiovascular Health

The Critical Role of Primary Care in Postpartum Hypertension Management

Postpartum Hypertension

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), including gestational hypertension and preeclampsia, affect up to 10% of pregnancies in the U.S.¹ While delivery often resolves acute symptoms, postpartum hypertension persists in nearly half of patients, putting them at increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD), stroke, renal dysfunction, and future hypertension.²

The 6-week postpartum period is particularly high-risk. Yet, many patients do not attend follow-up visits, and blood pressure issues often go undetected until significant damage occurs.

📌 Persistent stage II hypertension (≥140/90 mmHg) is linked to long-term cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

📌 Black, Hispanic, and rural-residing patients experience disproportionately higher rates of postpartum complications and reduced access to care.³

Primary care providers are crucial in bridging the gap between obstetric care and lifelong cardiovascular health, yet many patients fall through the cracks during this vulnerable transition.

The Consequences of Missed Opportunities

If postpartum hypertension is not proactively managed, it may result in:

Increased risk of heart failure and stroke in the years following pregnancy⁴
Earlier onset of chronic hypertension and metabolic syndrome⁵
Disparities in maternal morbidity and mortality—especially among marginalized populations³
Low rates of connection to long-term preventive care, which worsens outcomes across generations⁶

Introducing
RI-SPHERES

RI-SPHERES (Rhode Island–Statewide Postpartum HypErtension REmote Surveillance) is a technology-enabled, statewide research initiative designed to reduce short- and long-term risks associated with postpartum hypertension.

What We Offer

RI-SPHERES is a technology-based postpartum blood pressure monitoring program designed to reduce disparities in hypertensive care. Participants are introduced to the program virtually or in person, where they learn to use a Bluetooth-enabled BP cuff synced with the RI-SPHERES app for self-monitoring, education, and messaging support.

Care Managers (CMs) provide ongoing support, address social needs through community referrals, and ensure participants are connected to primary care. After 6 weeks postpartum, the program shifts focus to long-term preventive care.

How Primary Care Can Help

We rely on primary care providers to close the gap in postpartum hypertension management. CMs encourage all participants to schedule a preventive care visit—ideally before one year postpartum—to ensure BP is addressed by a PCP, APP, or relevant specialist. Visits occurring ≥6 weeks postpartum that include blood pressure counseling help us meet key study goals.By partnering with us, you play a vital role in reducing long-term cardiovascular risk among postpartum patients.

Comparing Standard SMBP to RI-SPHERES

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