Discover the symptoms and the best ways to prevent hypercoagulability during pregnancy and postpartum
Alicja Kowalska
2026-03-23
6 min. read
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Hypercoagulability, a condition of excessive blood clotting, occurs in many women not only during pregnancy but also during the postpartum period. Women tend to disregard the warning signs, believing that foot pain is merely a potential symptom after childbirth or caused by external anesthesia.
Factors contributing to blood clot formation
Venous thromboembolism involves two interconnected conditions: deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Clots form in deep veins and can break off, traveling to the lungs, posing a life-threatening risk. The lower extremities are most commonly affected, though pelvic veins may also be involved. Symptoms require immediate action, as a pulmonary embolism can be fatal. In Poland, around 40,000 people die from this condition annually. The causes of thrombosis are complex, potentially including genetic predisposition, lifestyle, or prior medication. A key risk factor is prolonged immobility, such as during bed rest or long journeys. Pregnancy and the postpartum period also increase risk due to hormonal changes and uterine pressure on veins. Women in late pregnancy should be particularly vigilant, as leg swelling is common.
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