Low molecular weight heparin is the preferred anticoagulant for the treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism during pregnancy, except in patients with specific contraindications.
This document provides practical clinical guidance on the prevention and treatment of obstetric-associated VTE based on existing guidelines and expert consensus.
Venous thromboembolism (VTE), which may manifest as pulmonary embolism (PE) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), is a serious and potentially fatal condition. Treatment and prevention of obstetric-related VTE is complicated by the need to consider fetal, as well as maternal, wellbeing when making management decisions. Although absolute VTE rates in this population are low, obstetric-associated VTE is an important cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. This manuscript, initiated by the Anticoagulation Forum, provides practical clinical guidance on the prevention and treatment of obstetric-associated VTE based on existing guidelines and consensus expert opinion based on available literature where guidelines are lacking.
Bates et al. (2016) conducted a review in Obstetric-associated venous thromboembolism. Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) was evaluated. Low molecular weight heparin is the preferred anticoagulant for the treatment and prevention of venous thromboembolism during pregnancy, except in patients with specific contraindications.