Primary care cardiovascular risk reduction after pregnancy complications: a qualitative systematic review

Adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) affect approximately 30% of pregnancies and confer lifelong elevated cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. Behavioural interventions may mitigate this risk.

To systematically review qualitative literature on women's experiences of behavioural change for cardiovascular risk reduction following APOs, with a focus on health equity.

Qualitative systematic review, limited to high-income countries with universal access to health care.

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL from inception to March 2025 identified primary studies. Thematic synthesis followed Thomas and Harden's three-stage approach. Themes were mapped onto the COM-B (Capability, Opportunity, Motivation-Behaviour) framework to theoretically ground and structure analysis.

Eighteen studies involving 339 women met inclusion criteria. Women who were minority ethnic formed the majority in only two studies. Demographic data regarding socioeconomic status, ethnicity, or both were absent from five. Experiences shaping behaviour change aligned with COM-B domains. Delayed physical and psychological recovery after APOs reduced women's capability to initiate changes. Competing demands, including childcare, household responsibilities, and work, restricted opportunity to focus on long-term cardiovascular health. Opportunities improved when behaviour changes were easily integrated into family life and offered shared benefits. Motivation was strengthened by awareness of increased CVD risk, the responsibilities of parenthood, and personalised advice from healthcare professionals. Tailored, proactive follow-up supported engagement, especially for minority ethnic and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups.