This study presents a review of UK pregnancy research needs and priorities, comparing this to current research expenditure and setting the findings in the context of NHS costs related to pregnancy.

Cover: Pregnancy research review
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Pregnancy research review

Policy report

by Susan Guthrie, Catherine A. Lichten, Brandi Leach, Jack Pollard, Sarah Parkinson, Marlene Altenhofer

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Research Questions

  1. What is the current level of spend on pregnancy research in the UK?
  2. What is this spent on, in terms of type of research and topic?
  3. How does the current pregnancy research spend in the UK compare to other health research areas?
  4. What are the main priorities for future pregnancy research in the UK?

In 2014, the Chief Medical Officer recommended a review of research needs and expenditure in pregnancy in the UK. The objective of this study was to deliver that review, and generate a sound evidence base on UK pregnancy research needs and priorities, and how that compares to the current funding landscape.

Key Findings

  • £51m per year is invested in pregnancy research in the UK.
  • For every £1 spent on pregnancy care in the NHS, around 1p is spent on research.
  • Mental health research is the top priority for all stakeholders and is likely underfunded.
  • Other priority topics are varied, spanning stillbirth, preterm birth, inequalities, postnatal support, and safety of medications during pregnancy. The level of funding currently provided differs across the topics identified as priorities.

Table of Contents

  • Chapter One

    Introduction

  • Chapter Two

    Findings

  • Chapter Three

    Reflections

Research conducted by

This report was commissioned by the UK Clinical Research Collaboration and conducted by RAND Europe.

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