Aspirin and Prevention of Preeclampsia

Abstract

1. A heterogeneous group of randomized trials have been conducted using low-dose aspirin to prevent preeclampsia. The results do not support widespread use of low-dose aspirin to prevent preeclampsia. 2. On the basis of existing literature, it is reasonable to use prophylactic low-dose aspirin from early pregnancy in the following groups: (i) Women with prior fetal loss after the first trimester, with placental insufficiency (ii) Women with severe fetal growth retardation in a preceding pregnancy either due to preeclampsia or unexplained (iii) Women with severe early-onset preeclampsia in a previous pregnancy necessitating delivery at or before 32 weeks' gestation. 3. On the basis of existing literature, it is recommended that aspirin not be used in the following groups: (i) Healthy nulliparous women (ii) Women with mild chronic hypertension (iii) Women with established preeclampsia. 4. The data are sufficient to support further trials in more homogeneous select subgroups of women considered at risk of developing preeclampsia.