The Top 4 Benefits of Pre-Eclampsia Screening Before 13+ Weeks

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure and potential damage to organs, often emerging after 20 weeks of gestation. Overall, pre-eclampsia happens in 2-8 % of pregnancies. Early risk stratification through screening before 13+ weeks can significantly help prevent this complication in the individuals with risk factors. Here are the advantages of early pre-eclampsia screening:

Improved Risk Stratification

Early screening allows for more precise risk stratification. By assessing biomarkers and maternal factors before 13+ weeks, healthcare providers can better identify women at high risk for developing pre-eclampsia. This stratification facilitates targeted interventions and monitoring strategies tailored to individual risk profiles.

Enhanced Preventive Measures

With early identification of at-risk of developing pre-eclampsia pregnancies, preventive measures can be implemented sooner. Medications such as low dose aspirin may be recommended to reduce the risk of later developing pre-eclampsia. Low dose aspirin, started ideally before 16 weeks, can reduce the risk of early-onset or severe pre-eclampsia by 70-90% depending on the study and population. Additionally, lifestyle modifications and close monitoring can mitigate potential complications, improving maternal and fetal outcomes. People who had preterm/severe pre-eclampsia also have a decrease life expectancy by 10 years (Figo 2019); it is being considered a marker of future cardiovascular health.

Optimized Resource Allocation

Pre-eclampsia screening before 13+ weeks allows for a more efficient allocation of healthcare resources. Recent economic studies predicted that universal pre-eclampsia risk screening and low dose aspirin prevention was a cost-effective intervention saving millions of dollars in healthcare cost from maternal and neonatal complications. By identifying high-risk pregnancies early, healthcare providers can prioritize care and allocate resources more effectively. This proactive approach helps optimize prenatal care and improve overall pregnancy management.

Improved Maternal and Fetal Monitoring

Early screening provides an opportunity for enhanced maternal and fetal monitoring throughout pregnancy. Regular follow-ups and additional testing can be scheduled based on the initial screening results, ensuring that maternal and fetal health is closely monitored and leading to timely interventions if necessary.

Contact Milestones Diagnosis and Wellness to discuss pre-eclampsia screening or ask your provider to look at the Fetal Medicine Foundation website for their multivariate calculator.