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Pregnancy-Related Venous Thromboembolism
Emily M Armstrong1, Jessica M Bellone2, Lori B Hornsby3
1Department of Pharmacy Practice, Auburn University Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn, AL, USA Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA ekm0010@auburn.edu.
Journal of Pharmacy Practice
|April 19, 2014
Summary
Pregnancy increases the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Anticoagulation with heparin is recommended, especially for high-risk pregnancies, to prevent blood clots.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Hematology
- Thrombosis Research
Background:
- Pregnancy elevates the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), occurring in 0.49-2 per 1000 deliveries.
- Risk factors include advanced maternal age, obesity, smoking, cesarean section, prior VTE, and thrombophilia (e.g., Factor V Leiden, prothrombin gene mutation, antiphospholipid syndrome).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the risk factors and management strategies for venous thromboembolism (VTE) during pregnancy.
- To outline current recommendations for anticoagulation and thromboprophylaxis in pregnant individuals.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on pregnancy-associated venous thromboembolism.
- Analysis of risk factors, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options including heparin anticoagulation.
Main Results:
- Low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) is preferred over unfractionated heparin (UFH) for anticoagulation due to convenience and safety.
- Antepartum thromboprophylaxis is advised for high-risk pregnancies; surveillance may suffice for lower-risk cases.
- Postpartum anticoagulation is a consideration for both high and low-risk individuals.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of VTE in pregnancy requires individualized risk assessment and appropriate anticoagulation strategies.
- Heparin therapy, particularly LMWH, is crucial for preventing and treating thromboembolic events in pregnant women.
- Close monitoring and tailored prophylaxis are essential for optimizing outcomes in pregnancies complicated by VTE risk.
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