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Increased intravascular coagulation associated with pregnancy
F R Gerbasi1, S Bottoms, A Farag
1Department of Anesthesiology, Wayne State University, Hutzel Hospital, Detroit, Michigan.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|March 1, 1990
Summary
Pregnancy accelerates blood clotting and fibrinolysis, indicating increased hemostasis in vivo. This compensated intravascular coagulation is vital for pregnancy and delivery preparation.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Hematology
- Physiology
Background:
- Pregnancy is traditionally associated with hypercoagulability.
- Previous studies relied on in vitro measurements of coagulation factors.
- The in vivo hemostatic changes during pregnancy require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vivo hemostatic system during pregnancy.
- To assess changes in specific hemostatic indices in pregnant women compared to nonpregnant controls.
Main Methods:
- Simultaneous measurement of 11 specific hemostatic indices.
- Study included 28 healthy pregnant women and 24 nonpregnant female controls.
- Utilized recent technological advancements for in vivo analysis.
Main Results:
- Significant increases observed in fibrinopeptide A, beta thromboglobulin, platelet factor 4, and fibrin(ogen) degradation products.
- These findings suggest heightened platelet turnover, clotting, and fibrinolysis.
- Demonstrated in vivo evidence of accelerated intravascular coagulation during pregnancy.
Conclusions:
- Pregnancy is characterized by compensated, accelerated intravascular coagulation in vivo.
- This state is crucial for maintaining the uterine-placental interface.
- It also prepares the maternal system for the hemostatic demands of delivery.