Clinical characteristics of pregnant women on the use of daily low-dose aspirin in different hypertensive pregnancy disorders: A retrospective comparative study

Background: Hypertensive disorders represent major causes of maternal and fetal complications. It includes a range of conditions, most notably preeclampsia. Aspirin is a well-accepted therapy for the primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular events. The indications for the use of aspirin during pregnancy are, however, the subject of much concern. This study aimed to assess the clinical characteristics from the benefits of daily low-dose aspirin administration alongside antihypertensive in pregnant women with different hypertensive disorders. Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was carried out on pregnant women during their routine visit to the obstetric clinic at Baghdad Teaching Hospital. Patients diagnosed during pregnancy with different hypertensive disorders on the prescription of antihypertensive medication with or without daily low-dose aspirin administration were selected. Data were collected to structure a detailed assessment regarding the patients' demographic, gestational, and medical records. Results: Methyldopa was the main antihypertensive agent (98%). Among pregnant women with daily aspirin use, 68% had gestational hypertension, 24% had preeclampsia alongside proteinuria (P = 0.0001), the frequency of daily dose intake of methyldopa (250mg) tablet (two vs. three times) was significant (P = 0.0001). All pregnant women within the group of daily low-dose aspirin were safe from the incidence of eclampsia (P = 0.0001). Conclusion: This study provides intriguing evidence for the benefits of daily low-dose aspirin use during pregnancy as it is considered as a simple protective measure from serious maternal complications of hypertensive disorders, where these complications continue to affect maternal health long after delivery.