Pregnancy Varicose Veins and Deep Vein Thrombosis

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    What is Deep Vein Thrombosis in Pregnancy

    During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes a plethora of changes. They are vulnerable to various disorders, such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

    To understand more about it, keep reading.

    What are varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

    Varicose veins are twisted, swollen blood vessels that get bulged under the skin surface. These veins appear purple or blue and are mainly present in the lower part of the body (legs, feet, and ankles).

    Although varicose veins are not dangerous, in some cases, they may lead to serious health complications

    Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition where a blood clot forms in the deep vein in the body. The clots usually happen in the legs, pelvis, or arm. But when the clot forms in the deep veins of the thighs, leg, or pelvis, it may cause blood to back up, causing pain and swelling.

    DVT can be dangerous as a clot may travel from the legs to the body, especially if it travels to the lungs, which can cause pulmonary embolism.

    Why are women more likely to develop varicose veins and DVT during pregnancy?

    The incidence of varicose veins and DVT during pregnancy increases. The following are the factors responsible for the same:

    • Varicose Veins & Pregnancy: During pregnancy, as the uterus grows, it increases the pressure on the right side of the body, increasing pressure on the veins. Moreover, during pregnancy, the amount of blood increases in the body, further adding pressure on your veins. Also, there is an increase in progesterone levels, which causes the relaxation of blood vessels, making the vessels weaker and may lead to the pooling of the blood.
    • DVT and & Pregnancy: DVT is not common in pregnancy. The risk of DVT is higher in the postpartum period. During pregnancy in women, the blood clots more quickly to reduce the blood loss during labor and delivery. Moreover, blood flow to the legs is reduced in the later stages of pregnancy as the blood vessels around the pelvis are pressed, mainly because of the baby’s growth. Various blood clotting factors levels are increased, fibrin generation is increased, and fibrinolytic activity is decreased. Together these factors increase the incidence of DVT.

    Prevention of Varicose veins and DVT:

    The following preventive measures can be taken to avoid the incidence of varicose veins and DVT during the pregnancy:

    • Varicose veins prevention: The following steps can help to prevent varicose veins:
      • Do not wear tight clothes
      • Do not stand still or sit for a more extended period
      • Try to keep your feet elevated whenever possible
      • Exercise daily
      • Do not cross your legs and ankles while sitting
    • DVT prevention: The following steps can help to prevent DVT:
      • Stay active
      • Wear prescribed compression stockings (VEIN care or Sigvaris)
      • Drink plenty of water
      • Avoid drinking alcohol during pregnancy

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