Positioning on Cardiovascular risk of the fourth trimester: pregnancy as a risk predictor.

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) represent the main health issue for women worldwide. Onethird of female mortality is attributed to CVD. They are also considered the leading cause of maternal mortality. Pregnancy, seen as a stress test, serves as a starting point to identify women who may have a higher long-term risk of CVD, based on the development of adverse events during gestation. These events can significantly increase the long-term risk of CVD for both mothers and children.

The "fourth trimester" thus presents an opportunity to optimize short-, medium-, and longterm postpartum cardiovascular health control for women. Currently, there are no systematic postnatal check-ups or maternal health care. This standpoint paper aims to increase awareness on both fourth-trimester complications and recommendations for all medical professionals from different specialties who have contact with women after pregnancy who have experienced adverse events during pregnancy.