How to perform first trimester combined screening for pre-eclampsia

Pre-eclampsia is a common condition that affects 2-5% of pregnancies and is associated with significant maternal and perinatal morbidity, and cost to the healthcare system. In those at high risk for pre-eclampsia, interventions such as aspirin intake have been shown to reduce prevalence of disease. However, to implement these interventions, it is essential that high-risk women be identified early in pregnancy. A combined first trimester screening model for pre-eclampsia that includes maternal history, mean arterial pressure, uterine artery Doppler and PlGF has been shown to be the most effective at identifying the population at greatest risk of pre-eclampsia. This article will explore the most appropriate methods of measuring the components of first trimester screening and discuss the use of aspirin for prevention of pre-eclampsia in pregnancy.