As with any stage of life, we are subject to experiencing some health problems. However, most of them cause us greater concern when they occur during pregnancy, as they trigger fears of affecting fetal development or even interrupting the pregnancy. One of these issues that brings not only concern but also many doubts is thrombosis during pregnancy.
Thrombosis itself is a blood clot that causes a blockage in the veins and arteries, which ends up preventing normal blood flow in that area. This blockage leads to localized pain, discomfort, swelling, and difficulty walking when it happens in the legs, which is why it’s important to seek care as soon as the first signs are noticed. There are some types of this problem, and only some types of thrombosis during pregnancy are considered common at this stage, such as hemorrhoidal thrombosis that occurs due to the baby’s weight or as a result of vaginal delivery.
Another type considered common during pregnancy is placental thrombosis. This type is seen as the most concerning during pregnancy because if not properly monitored, it can lead to miscarriage. Therefore, in case of reduced fetal movements, which is the main symptom, the pregnant woman should seek her doctor immediately for an ultrasound evaluation. Aside from decreased movement, there are no other symptoms, so stay alert!
The most frequently reported kind during pregnancy, due to higher case numbers, is venous thrombosis which mainly affects the legs of the pregnant woman. This causes great discomfort and can even make it impossible for the woman to move her legs or walk. Localized swelling accompanied by redness and constant pain are the main symptoms of this type of thrombosis during pregnancy. Enlarged veins are also a very common sign in this situation.
Remember that the same symptoms of venous thrombosis can also be caused by fluid retention generated during pregnancy, so every symptom should be reported to the obstetrician for additional tests that can detect and identify the correct cause. An ultrasound can determine whether it is thrombosis or not! It’s also worth noting that thrombosis during pregnancy is considered a rare problem, and it usually occurs in pregnant women over the age of 35, those who are overweight, or those experiencing a multiple pregnancy. These are considered the main risk factors.
How to Prevent and What is the Treatment for Thrombosis During Pregnancy?
Some precautions to support blood circulation are recommended during pregnancy, thus helping to prevent problems like thrombosis. When the doctor advises the pregnant woman to walk or do other physical activities from the beginning whenever possible, it is not by chance, as physical activity greatly helps blood circulation. A proper diet, rich in fiber and accompanied by adequate water and fluid intake, is also extremely important in combating circulatory problems. Cut out fatty foods and those high in sodium from your diet, as they further increase the chances of thrombosis developing. Spending long periods in the same position, whether sitting or lying down, also increases risk, so take small breaks and move around.
Avoid smoking during pregnancy and staying around smokers, since cigarettes increase the risk of thrombosis at any stage of life. Using compression stockings from the beginning of pregnancy is also an excellent way to prevent bigger problems, as they improve and support blood circulation. Thrombosis during pregnancy can cause pulmonary embolism, which affects the pregnant woman’s lungs, causing shortness of breath, intense chest pain, and frequent coughing with blood. If you notice any suspicious signs of thrombosis, contact your doctor immediately.
The appropriate treatment should be prescribed by the obstetrician accompanying the prenatal care and, in most cases, involves injections of anticoagulants, also known as heparin, which act directly on the clot. The medication dissolves the clots, restoring blood circulation and reducing the chances of new clots forming. Generally, the treatment continues until the end of pregnancy and afterward as well, since during and after childbirth, as the abdomen and pelvic veins undergo changes, new injuries and clots can occur.
