Blood Clots During Pregnancy
Facts About Blood Clots During Pregnancy
Most women go through pregnancy totally healthy, but there is one condition that all pregnant women need to watch for: blood clots during pregnancy. This is because blood tends to clot much more easily during pregnancy as the body attempts to limit blood loss during labor and delivery.
Any pregnant woman can develop blood clots during pregnancy; however, risks can be elevated if any of the following conditions accompany pregnancy:
●Bed rest for an extended period of time
●Overweight other than pregnancy
●Long trips with limited movement
●Blood clot predisposition
●Deliveries requiring surgery
The most common areas for blood clots during pregnancy to form are in the pelvis or in the legs. The deep veins, or those found deep within the body, are at the greatest risk, in a condition referred to as deep vein thrombosis. Pulmonary thrombosis is the condition when a blood clot breaks off from a location in the body and begins to travel. Since these veins are those which lead to the heart and lungs, it is potentially a very serious condition. In addition, the formation of clots can occur within the placenta; posing a danger to your unborn baby if unchecked.
There are symptoms to watch for that can indicate the presence of blood clots. During pregnancy, legs may swell; however, if only one exhibits swelling along with redness and pain or discomfort, it could mean that a blood clot has developed. Sometimes there are no symptoms of the thrombosis.
In those few women for whom the presence of blood clots during pregnancy has been confirmed, it is still possible to treat the condition. Blood thinners, such as heparin, can be administered with no risk to the baby. In many cases, however, no treatment at all may be necessary. This is a decision that only your own doctor can make after discussing the situation with you.
Fortunately, blood clots during pregnancy are avoidable. All women should know about the risks of this disorder, since knowledge is power. Watch for symptoms, and advise your doctor immediately if any arise. Check with your female family members to determine if there is any family history of blood clots; it can be a predisposed condition in your family. If that is the case, be proactive and advise your doctor at the earliest opportunity. Be active; with your doctor’s permission. Watch weight gain during pregnancy as your doctor advises; excessive weight is a risk factor for clots during pregnancy.
A healthy pregnancy is what all women hope for, and in most cases, that is exactly what they experience. Every now and then, however, blood clots during pregnancy may form that require some extra attention and care. In most cases, under your doctor’s attentive care, your pregnancy will still be a wonderful, healthy experience.