Blood clots during pregnancy

Blood clots are a serious problem, especially during pregnancy. Thrombus formation during pregnancy comes with additional risks or problems due to your baby's development, fortunately this is rare and nothing to worry about.

However, there are steps you can take to further minimize your risk of having them during pregnancy.

What is a blood clot?

A blood clot occurs when your body sends cells called platelets to block the flow of blood. This usually happens when you cut yourself to prevent constant bleeding from the wound. During pregnancy, your blood is more likely to clot to avoid losing too much blood during childbirth.

However, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis, which occurs when blood clots form in the legs and pelvis, can occur and is associated with a number of serious conditions. The good news is that there are ways to both prevent deep vein thrombosis and treat it once it occurs.

In addition, only 1 or 2 out of 1,000 pregnant women experience blood clots, so there is no cause for concern unless you think you are at risk.

What causes blood clots during pregnancy?

Research has shown a number of possible causes of deep vein thrombosis, and it's important to note if you fall into one of these categories. Women are more likely to form blood clots in the first three months of pregnancy or in the first six weeks after childbirth. If you think you are at risk for deep vein thrombosis, talk to your doctor.

You may be at risk if:

You or a close relative have experienced deep-vein thrombosis before
You smoke or are exposed to secondhand smoke frequently
You are over 35 years old
You are overweight
You travel long distances while pregnant
You are expecting multiples
You are sedentary for long periods of time
You have a cesarean section

Women tend to be more sensitive and aware of possible complications during pregnancy. Although blood clots are unlikely to form, there are several signs that may indicate the possibility of a blood clot.

This includes:

Swelling or pain in one leg
Pain that worsens when you walk
Veins that look larger than normal

Why are blood clots dangerous during pregnancy?

Deep vein thrombosis can seriously affect your pregnancy in several ways:

Blood clots in the placenta
Heart attack
Stroke
Pulmonary embolism, which is when blood clots break off and are lodged in the lungs
Miscarriage

How can you prevent and treat blood clots during pregnancy?

Prevention of deep vein thrombosis is important and can be achieved through a healthy lifestyle. Staying active is an important part of managing deep vein thrombosis, so check with your doctor to find out what activities and types of exercise you can do. Regular exercise improves circulation and can prevent blood clots. It is also important to eat healthy and if you are currently a smoker you should quit immediately. It is important to tell your doctor if you think you are at risk for deep vein thrombosis.

If you are diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis, you will most likely be prescribed anticoagulants, which prevent blood from clotting just as easily.