Pregnant women face a 5x higher risk of developing blood clots compared to non-pregnant women. Understanding and preventing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) during pregnancy is crucial for maternal health.

Why Pregnancy Increases Blood Clot Risk:

• Physiological changes and pelvic compression from the baby
• Increased clotting factors in blood during pregnancy and up to 6 weeks postpartum
• Higher estrogen levels
• Risk continues for up to 3 months after delivery

Major Risk Factors:

• Age 35 or older
• Previous blood clots
• Genetic predisposition
• Multiple births
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Fertility treatments
• Limited mobility
• C-section delivery
• Pregnancy complications like preeclampsia
• Black women face 42% higher risk compared to white women

Warning Signs of DVT:

• Leg tenderness, especially in calves and thighs
• Calf pain
• One-sided swelling
• Chest pain or shortness of breath (if clot moves to heart/lungs)

Prevention Strategies:

1. Stay active and maintain regular movement

2. During travel:

   • Move every 1-2 hours
   • Perform ankle exercises
   • Take walking breaks

3. Use compression stockings to improve circulation

4. Stay hydrated:

   • Drink 8-12 glasses of water daily
   • Helps prevent blood from thickening

Treatment:

• Seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear
• Doctors diagnose using ultrasound
• Treatment typically involves blood thinners (usually Lovenox)
• Preventive doses for high-risk patients
• Regular monitoring throughout pregnancy

Seeking prompt medical attention for any DVT symptoms is crucial, as early detection and treatment can prevent serious complications for both mother and baby.

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