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.