DVT Treatment During Pregnancy: Is It Possible?

During pregnancy, the body undergoes several changes that can impact venous health, such as hormonal fluctuations contributing to increased blood volume and slowed blood flow, the growing uterus putting pressure on veins, and excess strain on the circulatory system. According to WebMD, pregnant women are five times more likely to get a blood clot than a woman who isn’t expecting, largely due to this increased pelvic pressure and slower circulation toward the lower extremities. This can result in swelling, a higher risk of varicose veins, and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

DVT during pregnancy can be dangerous if left untreated, but it can be managed effectively with the proper care. In this blog, we will discuss how DVT is treated during pregnancy and why seeking professional vein care is crucial for the health of both the mother and baby.

Questions about your risk of DVT? Schedule a consultation with a board-certified physician at Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) today. We can put your mind at ease with a collaborative treatment plan. Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.

Understanding DVT During Pregnancy

DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins of the body, typically in the legs. Again, DVT risk increases during pregnancy due to several specific factors:

• Higher Blood Volume: Pregnant women experience increased blood volume to support the growing baby, leading to changes in blood flow and clotting elements.
• Hormonal Changes: The body produces more hormones, such as progesterone, which relaxes blood vessel walls and makes them more susceptible to clot formation.
• Pressure from the Expanding Uterus: The growing uterus puts more pressure on the veins, particularly those in the lower body, which may slow blood flow and increase clotting risks.

Identifying and treating DVT promptly is essential, as DVT consequences can be severe: A blood clot can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE), which can be life-threatening for both the mother and the baby.

DVT Signs and Symptoms

DVT symptoms during pregnancy can sometimes be subtle, making it difficult for women to recognize its occurrence—especially when coupled with the various symptoms that can come and go throughout the pregnancy itself. This is true with other forms of thrombosis and pregnancy as well. According to the National Library of Medicine:

“Isolated iliac vein thrombosis may present with abdominal pain, back pain and/or swelling of the entire leg. These symptoms may be masked by the swelling and discomfort that accompany normal pregnancies, making the diagnosis of DVT during pregnancy more challenging.” – National Library of Medicine

That said, common DVT symptoms include:

• Swelling in one leg, typically around the calf or ankle
• Aching or tenderness in the leg, especially when walking or standing
• Warmth in the affected leg
• Red or discolored skin on the leg
• Swollen, visible veins underneath the skin

Again, some pregnant women with DVT may not experience any symptoms, and others may only have mild signs that can be easily overlooked or mistaken for other conditions. Pregnant women must stay aware of the risk factors and take any concerns to their physician.

DVT Treatment During Pregnancy

If a pregnant woman is diagnosed with DVT, treatment usually focuses on preventing the clot from growing. Reducing PE risk and safely managing the clot for both the mother and baby is paramount. This method often includes:

1. Anticoagulant Therapy: The primary treatment for DVT during pregnancy is anticoagulation therapy, which helps to prevent further clotting. Some blood thinners must be avoided during pregnancy due to potential harm to the baby, so doctors typically prescribe heparin or low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), which do not cross the placenta and are considered safe alternatives.
2. Compression Stockings: Wearing medical-grade compression stockings can help reduce swelling, improve blood flow, and prevent further clot formation. Typically used alongside additional DVT treatment methods, compression stockings are particularly useful for women who experience swelling or discomfort from the condition. According to Healthline, the recommended tightness for DVT treatment is between 30 and 40 mmHg.
3. Elevating the Legs: Elevating the affected leg can help decrease swelling and boost circulation, which is essential for managing DVT symptoms.
4. Ongoing Support: DVT treatment during pregnancy requires ongoing support from a physician, who may perform regular ultrasound exams to ensure the blood clot is not growing and take frequent blood tests to monitor clotting levels.
5. Lifestyle Changes: Pregnant women with DVT are usually advised to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including staying active (with their physician’s approval), avoiding sitting for prolonged periods, and staying hydrated.

The takeaway? DVT can be treated during pregnancy. The physician will provide guidance based on the patient’s health history and current symptoms to ensure the safety of the mother and baby. Attempting to treat the condition alone or ignoring symptoms altogether could cause serious health risks or may be insufficient concerning PE prevention.

DVT and Pregnancy: Why Professional Vein Care?

The importance of seeking professional vein care is beyond measure when discussing DVT treatment, especially during pregnancy. A specialized vein care physician has the experience to properly diagnose and treat the condition with a plan tailored to each patient's changing needs. Pregnant or not, seeking expert vein care ensures an accurate and timely diagnosis, an effective treatment plan, and a safe, comprehensive approach.

DVT is a serious condition that requires prompt attention, especially during pregnancy. That said, pregnant women can manage DVT effectively and reduce the risk of complications with the right treatment and professional care.

Let CVR Give You Peace of Mind During Your Pregnancy Journey

Professional vein care during pregnancy is critical for early DVT diagnosis, safe treatment, and ongoing support customized to each patient’s needs. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of vein disease — especially those that can indicate higher clotting and DVT risks — CVR experts are here to provide clarity and support by helping you navigate your treatment options while managing your care and recovery.

CVR offers a DVT rule-out service for same-day or next-day diagnosis and treatment plans. Call our hotline number at 877-SCAN-DVT (877-722-6388).

Ready for a vein care consultation? Call 240-965-3915 or visit our SCHEDULING PORTAL to book an appointment at a CVR vein clinic near you.

CVR accepts most major insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, and Medicare.