Gestational diabetes and preeclampsia, premature birth and oxygen deprivation: these are just a few examples of serious complications that can occur during pregnancy (and which could possibly even result in death). Nevertheless, people in the Netherlands assume during a first pregnancy that everything will go well, though this is not the case with everyone. With tailor-made care and preventive measures, the risks can be reduced. Therefore, a predictive computer model has been developed at Maastricht UMC+ to make a thorough risk assessment for those who need extra advice or treatment—and with successful results, as it has now been shown.

Risk reduction

The computer model is now being implemented throughout the province of Limburg. There was sufficient data (from about 800 pregnant women) available to the Maastricht researchers, which enabled them to draw valid conclusions about its effectiveness. The most important: a reduction of almost 45% in the risk of serious complications with the first-born child. Serious complications include oxygen deprivation or admission to the neonatal intensive care unit, but death within seven days is also included. In absolute numbers, 88 babies suffer from such complications (and the long-term consequences) every year in Limburg (out of a total of approximately 8,000 births annually). In the Netherlands as a whole, this would potentially involve almost 2,000 babies (out of a total of approximately 170,000 births annually).

Healthy pregnancy

But also the risk of preeclampsia or diabetes in the mother can be reduced, for example. The model mainly takes into account lifestyle factors such as BMI, blood pressure, smoking, etc. The model then gives recommendations on how to provide tailor-made care. Apart from recommendations to stimulate healthier behaviour, other specific recommendations can also be given. “For example, aspirin or calcium supplements can be prescribed if there is an increased risk of preeclampsia”, says gynaecologist Dr Liesbeth Scheepers. “The important thing is that, together with the pregnant woman, we look for a way to have the healthiest possible pregnancy.”

Savings on healthcare costs

In addition to health gains, the use of the computer model also leads to savings in healthcare costs. The researchers calculated that the average savings is 2,766 euros per birth. When calculated for Limburg, this is more than 22 million euros per year. If every midwife and gynaecologist/obstetrician in the Netherlands were to use the model, the potential savings would be even greater. “For successful implementation in other regions, as well as in Limburg, good cooperation between professional groups is a precondition”, says epidemiologist Prof. Dr Luc Smits. “In addition, regional differences in the available healthcare provisions and the population, for example, must also be taken into account. The results in Limburg indicate how valuable cooperation and prevention can be.”  

In Limburg, all obstetric care providers work together in the LOQS (Limburg Obstetric Quality System) programme. More information about the research and the Limburg approach can be found at www.zwangerinlimburg.nl.