Prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism during pregnancy

The purpose of this guide is to suggest, based on the available clinical evidence, the prevention measures for venous thromboembolism during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum in expert recommendations and international guidelines. Venous thromboembolism is a cause of maternal death, and it is therefore important to consider those situations in which the risk is greater and for which women should undergo preventive treatment. Personal and family history, the presence of acquired or hereditary thrombophilia, patient-related factors and those related to pregnancy or childbirth have a relative weight that determines the start of treatment and its duration. Low-molecular-weight heparin is the treatment of choice for these women. Prophylaxis might be necessary during the antenatal or postnatal period, and the duration and indication will vary depending on the risks and benefits.