Some people are at risk for developing blood clots in the legs or lungs (thrombosis) after they deliver a baby (postpartum). Risk of blood clots is highest in the first 6 weeks after delivery. This is the body’s natural response to protect someone against serious bleeding during childbirth or a miscarriage.
What’s your risk?
Some risk factors for blood clots include inherited thrombophilia (genetic blood clotting condition) or a family history of blood clots, recent surgery, trauma, cancer, or prolonged immobility.
Risk factors in pregnancy include smoking, elevated body mass index (BMI), being on bedrest, preeclampsia, other chronic health conditions, or developing a postpartum hemorrhage or postpartum infection. Talk to your healthcare provider today about your risk of blood clots.
Do you know the symptoms of blood clots?
A blood clot in the leg is known as a deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in one of the deep veins of your legs. The signs and symptoms of a DVT include:
- Swelling, usually in one leg more than the other
- Leg or groin pain or tenderness
- Skin warmth or redness
In pregnancy you may have some mild leg swelling, especially after being on your feet or at the end of the day. If one leg is persistently more swollen or is associated with pain or redness, then this may be a sign of a more serious blood clot.
A blood clot in the lungs is known as a pulmonary embolism (PE). A blood clot can break off from a DVT and travel to the lungs, causing a PE, which can be life threatening. The signs and symptoms of a PE include:
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Chest pain: Can be sharp, stabbing; may get worse with a deep breath
- Rapid heart rate
- Coughing up blood
- Feeling lightheaded or faint
DVT and PE is an emergency. If you are having any symptoms, then please seek urgent medical attention by going to your nearest emergency department.