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Why Are Blood Clots a Concern During Pregnancy?
A blood clot, also called a thrombosis, forms when blood changes from liquid to solid and creates a clump that can block a blood vessel. Normally, the body uses clots to stop bleeding from a cut or injury. During pregnancy, however, the blood becomes more likely to clot. This change protects against heavy blood loss during labour and delivery.
Pregnant people face about five times higher risk of clots compared to non-pregnant people. There are a few natural reasons behind this increased risk:
- Blood clots more easily to prepare for childbirth.
- The growing baby presses on blood vessels around the pelvis, slowing blood flow to the legs.
- Less movement happens sometimes, such as during bed rest or after delivery.
Who Faces Higher Risk of Blood Clots During Pregnancy?
There are several factors that can raise the chances of developing a blood clot during pregnancy. But it’s important to remember that having one or even a few risk factors doesn’t automatically mean a clot will form.
Key risks include:
- A personal history of blood clots.
- Family history of blood clots or clotting disorders.
- Inherited conditions (thrombophilia), such as Factor V Leiden mutation, prothrombin G20210A mutation, antithrombin deficiency, protein C or S deficiency, or MTHFR mutation.
- Obesity or being overweight.
- Age above 35 years.
- Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke.
- Carrying twins or more (multiple births).
- Prolonged immobility, like long-distance travel, bed rest, or limited movement after surgery.
- Delivery by caesarean section.
- Other health conditions, including high blood pressure, diabetes, heart or lung problems, cancer, infection, or varicose veins.
- Dehydration.
- Certain medications, such as some birth control pills or oestrogen hormones (avoid these if you have a history of clots).
Signs and Symptoms of Blood Clots During Pregnancy
Catching the signs of a blood clot early can make a big difference in preventing serious complications.
For DVT in the leg or arm, look out for:
- Swelling in one limb.
- Pain or tenderness that worsens when standing or walking.
- Skin that feels warm to touch, appears red, discoloured, or shows larger veins.
If the clot affects the lungs (PE), seek immediate help for:
- Difficulty breathing.
- Chest pain that gets worse with deep breaths or coughing.
- Fast or irregular heartbeat.
- Coughing up blood.
- Fainting.
In rare cases, clots in the brain may cause sudden headache, vision changes, confusion, seizures, or stroke-like symptoms. Always contact your doctor right away if anything feels unusual.
How Blood Clots Can Affect Pregnancy and the Baby
Blood clots during pregnancy pose risks to both mother and baby. Some of the possible risks include:
- Clots in the placenta that block blood flow, reducing oxygen and nutrients to the baby.
- Placental insufficiency, where the placenta works less effectively.
- Intrauterine growth restriction (poor baby growth in the womb).
- Preeclampsia.
- Preterm birth.
- Miscarriage.
- Stillbirth.
- Heart attack or stroke in the mother.
- Pulmonary embolism, a leading cause of pregnancy-related death.
How Doctors Diagnose Blood Clots During Pregnancy
Doctors use safe tests like ultrasound or MRI to check for clots. These scans are painless and do not harm the baby.
If a clotting condition is found, your prenatal care might become a bit more frequent.
What Are the Treatment Options for Blood Clots During Pregnancy?
Treating blood clots during pregnancy is all about preventing them from growing and stopping new ones from forming.
The exact approach depends on your situation, and your doctor will decide the safest option for you and your baby. It’s important to never start or change any medication on your own.
How to Prevent Blood Clots During Pregnancy
Preventing blood clots starts with simple steps and staying in close contact with your doctor. Here’s what can help:
- Know your history: Share any personal or family history of blood clots or clotting issues with your doctor early on.
- Stay active: Move around regularly as your doctor allows. Gentle activity helps keep blood flowing.
- Be careful on long trips: For trips over 4 hours, stretch your legs often, walk when possible, do ankle exercises, or pull your knees to your chest briefly.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, which can increase clotting risk.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on Blood Clots During Pregnancy: Understanding the Risks and Complications
- Are blood clots more common in first-time pregnancies?
No, clotting can occur in any pregnancy, regardless of how many times you’ve been pregnant. - Can travel by plane increase risk of blood clot during pregnancy?
Yes, long hours of air travel can slightly increase the risk of blood clots.