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Preventing Blood Clots After Childbirth: What New Moms Should Know
Published: Jan 21, 2024
The risk of blood clots doesn't end with delivery. In fact, the weeks following childbirth are a high-risk period for blood clots. Understanding how to prevent them is crucial for new mothers.
The Postpartum Clot Risk
After giving birth, a woman's body goes through many changes. The risk of blood clots is highest in the first 6 weeks postpartum. This is due to hormonal changes, potential blood loss during delivery, and decreased mobility after childbirth. Cesarean deliveries further increase this risk compared to vaginal births.
Who Needs Preventive Treatment?
Not all new mothers need medication to prevent blood clots. Your doctor will assess your personal risk factors. These may include a history of blood clots, certain inherited conditions, obesity, age over 35, or complications during pregnancy or delivery. Based on these factors, your doctor will recommend appropriate preventive measures.
Prevention Strategies
For many women, simple measures can help prevent blood clots. These include early mobilization after delivery, staying hydrated, and wearing compression stockings. For women at higher risk, blood-thinning medications may be prescribed. These are typically given as injections and are safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Duration of Prevention
If blood-thinning medication is needed, it's usually continued for at least 6 weeks after delivery. Some women with very high risk factors may need to continue treatment for longer. Your doctor will determine the appropriate duration based on your individual risk factors and recovery progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, most blood thinners used after childbirth are safe for breastfeeding.
As soon as your doctor says it's safe, usually within a few hours of delivery.
Leg pain or swelling, chest pain, or shortness of breath require immediate medical attention.
It depends on your other risk factors; not all women who deliver vaginally need medication.
Yes, gentle exercise as approved by your doctor can improve circulation and reduce clot risk.
Key Takeaways
Preventing blood clots after childbirth is an important part of postpartum care that shouldn't be overlooked.
References
- American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. ACOG Practice Bulletin No. 196: Thromboembolism in Pregnancy. Obstet Gynecol 2018; 132:e1.
- Bates SM, et al. American Society of Hematology 2018 guidelines for management of venous thromboembolism: venous thromboembolism in the context of pregnancy. Blood Adv 2018; 2:3317.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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