Hypercoagulability in pregnancy

Hypercoagulability in pregnancy is a physiological response in which the body's blood clotting process becomes more active during pregnancy. This is a natural adaptation to prevent excessive bleeding during childbirth, but it can also increase the risk of thrombosis and embolism, particularly in women with pre-existing coagulation disorders.

Physiology

During pregnancy, the body undergoes several changes to prepare for the potential blood loss during childbirth. One of these changes is an increase in the production of clotting factors, proteins in the blood that help to form clots. This results in a state of hypercoagulability, where the blood is more prone to clotting than usual.

Risks

While hypercoagulability is a normal part of pregnancy, it can also increase the risk of developing blood clots. This is particularly true for women with pre-existing coagulation disorders, such as Factor V Leiden or Prothrombin G20210A. These women are at a higher risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE) during pregnancy.

Management

Management of hypercoagulability in pregnancy involves a balance between reducing the risk of thrombosis and avoiding excessive bleeding. This may involve the use of anticoagulant medications, such as heparin or warfarin, under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Regular monitoring of blood clotting times and adjustment of medication doses may also be necessary.

See also

• Thrombophilia
• Pregnancy complications
• Hemostasis