Community Health Worker Support for Postpartum Hypertension

(AW2H Trial)

This trial aims to determine if pairing new mothers with a community health worker (CHW) can help lower blood pressure after pregnancy. High blood pressure during or after pregnancy, such as preeclampsia or gestational hypertension, increases the risk of heart disease later. Participants will receive a home blood pressure monitor and education on its use. Those in the CHW group will receive additional support, including help with medications and heart-healthy habits. Ideal candidates are new mothers who experienced high blood pressure related to their pregnancy and gave birth at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for participants to contribute to valuable research that could enhance postpartum care for future mothers.

Studies have shown that using community health workers (CHWs) to support patients is safe and well-received. Research indicates that these programs focus on education, guidance, and emotional support, which are generally low-risk activities. Reports of negative effects are rare because these programs do not involve medication or medical procedures.

Researchers are excited about the Alabama Womb to Heart Solution (AW2H) Community Health Worker (CHW) Program because it offers a personalized approach to managing postpartum hypertension. Unlike standard treatments, which typically involve medication and education on self-monitoring blood pressure, this program incorporates the ongoing support of community health workers for six months. This hands-on support aims to improve health outcomes by providing continuous education and encouragement, potentially making it easier for new mothers to manage their blood pressure effectively. This approach could lead to better long-term cardiovascular health for postpartum women.

Research shows that using telehealth at home to monitor blood pressure after childbirth can reduce the likelihood of hospital readmission compared to regular care. Studies have found that community health workers (CHWs) improve adherence to health advice. Participants in similar programs tend to remain engaged, continuing with the program. In this trial, one group will receive usual care, while another group will receive usual care plus the Alabama Womb to Heart Solution (AW2H). This solution employs CHWs to help mothers monitor their blood pressure, take medications, and adopt heart-healthy habits. This method relies on evidence that personalized support and monitoring can effectively manage high blood pressure after childbirth.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰