Table 2 Study participants test-preferences regarding the hypothetical offer of prediction models for preeclampsia

Information provision

‘I would like to know these percentages, only information ‘you are categorised as high or low-risk’ for me is not enough, I want complete information. For example what does it mean to be at low-risk, and what are my chances of developing the condition. And what does it mean to be at high-risk and what are my chances of developing the condition then. What are options for prevention and treatment. And when I know all these things, what are my options? [F9, primiparous, highly urbanised region].

‘Some oral information, but also some written information, so you can look the information up when you are back home’. [P8, primiparous, low urbanised region]

Medication

‘I am positive towards early identification of your risk, but I feel some reluctance for taking aspirin throughout my pregnancy. Calcium, for me is OK, you can find this in pregnancy vitamins as well’ [P8, primiparous, low urbanised region].

‘I found it a bit strange, I have no medical background, but I have been told that in case of a headache or any pain, it is better not to take aspirin as a painkiller, but paracetamol instead’ [F15 multiparous, highly urbanised region].

Choice

I think that everybody should make their own choices (to participate or not). That is my opinion [P7, primiparous, low urbanised region].

‘I would like to hear this (screening for PE) afterwards. They will take a blood test anyway, and then they will do all these exams....I don’t mind. And if they inform me about this afterwards, that is early enough’ [F1, primiparous, highly urbanised region].

‘Regarding use of aspirin and calcium, for me this should be a choice. First I would like to receive extensive information about these medicines [….] and than discuss what are the options [F4 primiparous, highly urbanised region].

False-positive classification

‘I fully agree…for me it would be really reassuring, because if you are determined as high-risk, there is only a 20% chance of developing the disease. Well, if I would have a chance of 80% to win the lottery, I would certainly participate. I don’t think it (high-risk identification) would worry me’ [F13, multiparous, highly urbanised region].