Protecting Pregnancy: Strategies for Preventing Blood Clots

A woman's body undergoes many changes during pregnancy. These changes are the reason for the formation of blood clots. Let us know in detail why pregnant women are more at risk of blood clots -

• Blood flow in the legs of a pregnant woman reduces because the blood vessels around the pelvis get compressed due to the growing baby.
• Many times women are advised bed rest during pregnancy. Due to this, their activity decreases and blood flow in the legs and arms decreases.
• Estrogen circulates during pregnancy, which increases the risk of blood clots.

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Symptoms of blood clot during pregnancy include chest pain, difficulty in breathing and fast heart beat. Let us know about other symptoms of blood clot during pregnancy -

• Breathing Problem.
• Chest Pain With Deep Breathing Or Coughing.
• Coughing Up Blood.
• Heart Beat Faster Than Normal.
• Feeling Pain In Legs And Arms Without Any Injury.
• Swelling In The Affected Area.
• Mild Warming, Redness Or Discoloration Of The Skin.

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Symptoms of blood clot formation during pregnancy are pain in the legs, slight warmth of the skin and swelling. To prevent this, it is important that the woman continues to do physical activity during pregnancy and drink plenty of water. Let us know in detail how blood clots can be prevented during pregnancy -

There are a few things that you can do to prevent blood clots during pregnancy:

• Be aware of risk factors.
• Family history.
• Make sure your doctor knows about any history of blood clots or blood clotting disorders in your family.
• Remain active
• Be aware of the signs and symptoms of a blood clot. 
• Visit your doctor regularly 

If you are pregnant and have concerns about blood clots, talk with your doctor about your risks and prevention. Depending on your condition, your OB-GYN may refer you to a hematologist, a doctor who specializes in treating blood conditions.

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Due to the formation of blood clots during pregnancy, they can reach the lungs and cause a blockage called pulmonary embolism. This may hinder blood from reaching the lungs. To avoid this, pregnant women are advised to move, drink plenty of water and do special exercises. If any pregnant woman feels its symptoms, she should go to the doctor and get checked.