Thrombophilia in Pregnancy: What You Need To Know
If you’re pregnant, you may be at an elevated risk for developing blood clots that could cause dangerous complications. Here’s what you need to know about thrombophilia in pregnancy.
Thrombophilia is a condition in which the blood has a higher tendency to clot. It can occur because the body produces too much of the protein that makes the blood clot or coagulate.
This means your blood tends to clot more readily than it should, which can be dangerous. A blood clot in the wrong place at the wrong time can cut off the oxygen supply to tissues that need it.
Also known as hypercoagulability, thrombophilia can pose many risks for both a pregnant person and their fetus. Here’s what you need to know about thrombophilia in pregnancy.
Symptoms of thrombophilia in pregnancy
You might not know you have thrombophilia until you actually develop a blood clot. Then, the symptoms can depend on where the blood clot has formed.
Common symptoms of thrombophilia during pregnancy include:
- swollen veins
- swelling in one leg
- cramping in legs, calves, and thighs
- chest pain
- anxiety
- dizziness
- heart palpitations
- coughing up blood
How does pregnancy increase the risk for thrombophilia?
There are two kinds of thrombophilia: acquired and genetic, or inherited. Several mutations can lead to genetic thrombophilia, with the most common type being the factor V Leiden mutation.
However, acquired thrombophilia is still the most common kind. It can be caused by:
- cancer
- long periods of immobility, such as prolonged bed rest
- traumatic injury
During pregnancy, hormone levels surge. However, hormones also influence the blood’s ability to coagulate, and the hormones associated with pregnancy tend to increase the blood’s tendency to coagulate. This increases a pregnant person’s risk of developing blood clots, which can lead to serious complications.
The risk actually peaks around the time of delivery, but it doesn’t end there. In fact, research suggests pregnancy hormones increase the likelihood of thrombophilia for as long as 2 months into the postpartum period.
What complications can arise?
Having thrombophilia during pregnancy can raise the risk of experiencing certain complications, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition that occurs when a blood clot develops inside a deep vein. It causes pain, swelling, and tenderness, usually in the calf or lower leg.
Another possible serious complication from thrombophilia is pulmonary embolism (PE), which occurs when a blood clot breaks off and blocks an artery in a lung.
A pregnant person is also at greater risk of:
- experiencing pregnancy loss
- a stillbirth
- placental abruption
- preeclampsia if a blood clot develops and blocks a vein or artery
Treatment options
If you are diagnosed with thrombophilia during pregnancy, a doctor may suggest you take a blood thinner to reduce the likelihood of developing a dangerous blood clot. A commonly used anticoagulant medication is low-molecular-weight heparin.
Heparin is also given to pregnant people experiencing PE.
If you develop signs of deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism while pregnant, you should seek medical care right away. Pulmonary embolism is one of the leading causes of death among pregnant people. A 2019 study suggests it accounts for about 9% of all pregnancy-related deaths in the United States. The research also suggests it’s more common among people who deliver by cesarean delivery, commonly known as a C-section.
What lifestyle measures can help?
Some pregnant people wear compression stockings to give them a little extra support, especially if they spend a lot of time on their feet. Compression stockings are also helpful in reducing the risk of blood clots in the legs.
Movement can also help. Immobility can be a risk factor for blood clotting, so a doctor may also encourage you to remain active. A doctor might also urge you to get up to walk as soon as possible after delivery, especially if you deliver by C-section.
When to speak with a doctor
If you already know you have thrombophilia and are pregnant, it is important to speak with a doctor. They can help you decide the best way to manage your condition and lower your risk during pregnancy and after delivery.
You should also consider speaking with a doctor if:
- you have a family history of thrombophilia
- you’ve recently been seriously injured
- you’ve been or are currently being treated for cancer
- you’ve spent significant time on bed rest
What is Thrombophilia in Pregnancy?
Thrombophilia in pregnancy refers to a condition where the blood has an increased tendency to form clots. This can pose risks to both the mother and the baby, potentially leading to complications such as miscarriage, preeclampsia, or placental abruption.
What Are the Causes of Thrombophilia in Pregnancy?
Thrombophilia can be caused by genetic factors inherited from parents or acquired conditions during pregnancy. Common genetic forms include Factor V Leiden and Prothrombin G20210A mutations.
How is Thrombophilia Diagnosed During Pregnancy?
Thrombophilia is diagnosed through a series of blood tests that detect clotting abnormalities. If you have a personal or family history of blood clots, your doctor may recommend these tests.
What Are the Symptoms of Thrombophilia in Pregnancy?
Thrombophilia often doesn’t cause symptoms until a clot forms. Symptoms of a blood clot may include swelling, pain, redness, or warmth in the limbs, especially the legs.
How Does Thrombophilia Affect Pregnancy?
Thrombophilia can increase the risk of complications such as recurrent miscarriages, growth restriction in the baby, and preeclampsia. These complications arise due to impaired blood flow to the placenta.
What Treatments Are Available for Thrombophilia in Pregnancy?
Treatment may involve the use of blood-thinning medications, such as low-dose aspirin or heparin, to reduce the risk of clot formation. Always consult with your healthcare provider for the best treatment plan.
Can Thrombophilia Be Prevented During Pregnancy?
While you cannot prevent genetic thrombophilia, managing risk factors such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and attending all prenatal appointments can help reduce complications.
Is Thrombophilia Testing Recommended for All Pregnant Women?
Testing is typically recommended if there are risk factors such as a personal or family history of clots. It is not a routine test for every pregnant woman.
What Lifestyle Changes Can Help Manage Thrombophilia in Pregnancy?
Staying active, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, wearing compression stockings, and following a healthy diet can help manage thrombophilia during pregnancy.
Can Thrombophilia Affect Future Pregnancies?
Yes, thrombophilia can affect future pregnancies. It’s important to discuss your previous pregnancy outcomes and any thrombophilia diagnosis with your healthcare provider for future pregnancy planning.
By addressing these commonly asked questions, this FAQ section aims to provide clear and concise information about thrombophilia in pregnancy, helping users better understand the condition and its implications.
Takeaway
Even if you don’t have a history of blood clots, you might want to discuss your risk profile with a doctor if you are planning to become pregnant.
Pregnancy is a major risk factor for blood clots, especially blood clots in the veins. A doctor can help you learn more about your risk for thrombophilia in pregnancy and understand the symptoms to watch out for so you can seek medical care if needed.
This is a highly informative post! It’s essential for expectant mothers and healthcare providers to understand the implications of thrombophilia during pregnancy. The explanations regarding potential risks and management strategies are particularly helpful. Thank you for shedding light on such an important topic!
This article provides crucial insights into managing thrombophilia during pregnancy. It’s reassuring to see evidence-based recommendations for both expecting mothers and healthcare professionals. Understanding the risks and preventive measures can significantly improve outcomes for both mother and baby. Thanks for shedding light on this important topic!
Thanks for sharing this informative post! Understanding thrombophilia in pregnancy is crucial for expecting mothers, as managing the condition can help ensure both maternal and fetal health. It’s great to see such a comprehensive overview of the potential risks and management strategies. This knowledge empowers women to have informed discussions with their healthcare providers. Looking forward to more posts on similar topics!
This is an insightful post! Thrombophilia’s impact on pregnancy is such an important topic, and understanding the risks and management strategies is crucial for expectant mothers and healthcare providers. Thank you for shedding light on this complex issue and providing clear guidance on what to look out for and how to approach these challenges.
This is a highly informative post! Understanding thrombophilia and its implications during pregnancy is crucial for expecting mothers and healthcare providers. Thanks for shedding light on the risks, management options, and preventive measures. It’s essential for women with this condition to stay informed and work closely with their doctors for a healthy pregnancy.