About Symptoms of a Blood Clot During Pregnancy

Blood clots can occur at any time, but pregnant women are especially susceptible. The body increases clotting factors during pregnancy to stop excessive blood loss during labor and delivery. It is because of this change that pregnant women are more likely to develop a blood clot. It is important to notice the symptoms when they appear, as it can cause problems with the pregnancy.

Thrombofilia

• A pregnant woman already has an increased risk of clotting, but if a woman has thrombofilia, a disorder that increases the probability of blood clots, that risk is increased dramatically. According to the March of Dimes, 80 percent of pregnant women who develop blood clots have thrombofilia.

Symptoms

• Pregnant women who develop blood clots can have swelling and redness in the area of the blood clot. Blood clots can become life threatening if they travel to the lungs, heart or brain.

Immobilization

• Women on bed rest have an increased risk of developing a blood clot because of immobilization. The lack of movement for long periods of time can lead to a blood clot. Pregnant women should move their legs or walk around the bed on occasion to keep the blood flowing properly.

Treatment

• Pregnant women who have a high risk for developing a blood clot can be treated with a blood thinner. This lessens the risk of developing a clot, but can cause other side effects including bone loss. Treatment can be administered during pregnancy as well as after.

Complications

• Blood clots can be dangerous for the baby as well. Blood clots are a cause for miscarriage as well as placental abruption, where the placenta peels away from the uterine wall.