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Faculty have requested this content not be shared outside of the session
CME Credit Offered
CME Credit Offered
Abstract Award
Abstract Award
Recording available 2/16-5/2
Recording available 2/16-5/2
AIUM Credit
AIUM Credit
Foundation Awardee
Foundation Awardee
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Abstract Award
Abstract Award
Foundation Awardee
Foundation Awardee

Poster Session 3

Category: Hypertension

Poster Session 3

(831) Bridging Care Gaps: A Qualitative Study of Postpartum Health Coaching for Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy

Thursday, February 12, 2026
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM  
Objective:
To qualitatively assess participant experiences by study allocation in the STAC-MyHEARTp randomized controlled trial: usual care vs. telephone health coaching for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy through 1-year postpartum.

Study Design:
This planned secondary qualitative study explored experiences of participants from the STAC-MyHEARTp trial (NCT05685251), which tested the efficacy of health coaching vs. usual care in improving 12-month postpartum hypertension follow-up. A semi-structured interview guide was developed using a deductive approach aligned with study aims. Participants were randomly selected for interviews, which were transcribed verbatim and independently coded by two team members in Dedoose, with a third resolving discrepancies. Codes were synthesized into broader themes reflecting postpartum and hypertension-related care by study arm. Themes, definitions, and exemplary quotes were organized into a qualitative matrix and collaboratively refined.

Results:
Thirty-two of 140 participants completed interviews (16 per group). Table 1 shows participant characteristics. Five themes emerged (Table 2): (1) Motivation and accountability—coaching supported health behaviors via goal-setting and check-ins; (2) Power of the coaching relationship—the coach was trusted, supportive, and reduced isolation; (3) Self-advocacy and empowerment—coaching encouraged active engagement with providers; (4) Hypertension awareness shaped by history—personal/family experiences influenced engagement; and (5) Unmet postpartum needs—participants cited gaps in mental health, support, and continuity of care.

Conclusion:
Health coaching was perceived as highly valuable, filling gaps in routine postpartum care by providing education, support, promoting self-advocacy and accountability. These findings support integrating health coaching into postpartum care for individuals with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. There is early evidence from this cohort that there is interest in long-term postpartum follow-up to support their health, emphasizing the need for research on effective postpartum support strategies.