PhD Conferral Mrs. Linda J.E. Meertens, MSc.

Keywords: pregnancy, risk, prediction model, validation, calcium, pregnancy complications, Expect Study

“Personalizing obstetric care; prediction and prevention of adverse pregnancy outcomes”

Risk selection – or determining the likelihood of a certain outcome – is an important part of obstetric care in the Netherlands. However, current care is insufficiently based on individual risks and the early detection and prevention of pregnancy complications. This dissertation reveals that risk models for pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes can make prenatal care more tailored to individual needs. In addition, advising on the use of calcium supplements during pregnancy may be an effective way to prevent pre-eclampsia and other important health risks at the population level and may also lead to a significant reduction in healthcare costs. At present, the risk models are used as part of care pathways for obstetric care in the province of Limburg.