What is a blood clot during pregnancy?
A blood clot is a clump of blood that forms in a blood vessel. Sometimes clots happen in deep veins. This is called deep vein thrombosis. It needs medical care right away. If a clot in a deep vein breaks apart, pieces of it can travel to the lungs. A blood clot in the lung is called a pulmonary embolism.
There's a higher risk for clots during pregnancy and after delivery. That's because of changes in hormones and blood flow. Having limited mobility also increases the risk.
What are the symptoms of blood clots during pregnancy?
Symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (blood clot in a vein) include pain, swelling, redness or any change in color, or warmth in just one leg or arm. Symptoms of pulmonary embolism (blood clot in the lung) include shortness of breath and sharp chest pain that's worse when you cough or take a deep breath.
How are blood clots diagnosed during pregnancy?
Your doctor will do a physical exam and ask questions about your past health. You may need certain tests, such as an ultrasound, an EKG (electrocardiogram), or a CT scan. You may also need blood tests.
How are blood clots during pregnancy treated?
Blood clots in deep veins are most often treated with a blood thinner (anticoagulant). It can stop the clot from growing and prevent it from breaking and moving to the lungs. It can also prevent new clots from forming. Your doctor may also suggest things you can do to relieve some of your symptoms.
How can you care for yourself when you have blood clots during pregnancy?
Your doctor may have you wear compression stockings. And you may be told to walk several times a day (if you can). If you have limited mobility, try to move your legs or change position as best you can every hour to keep blood moving. If you're given medicine, take it exactly as prescribed.
Blood clots and pregnancy: When to call
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You have symptoms of a blood clot in your lung (called a pulmonary embolism). These may include:
- Sudden chest pain.
- Trouble breathing.
- Coughing up blood.
Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have symptoms of a blood clot in your arm or leg (called a deep vein thrombosis). These may include:
- Swelling in one arm or leg (but not in the other) or in the groin.
- Pain in the arm, calf, back of the knee, thigh, or groin.
- A color change on the skin of the arm, leg, or groin. The skin may be reddish or purplish, depending on your usual skin color.
©2011-2024 Healthwise, Incorporated