ABSTRACT

Because pregnancy induces a series of haemostatic changes, with an increased concentration of coagulation factors, fibrinogen and platelet adhesiveness as well as diminished fibrinolysis, hypercoagulability and an increased risk of thromboembolic events are associated with it.5 In addition, obstruction to venous return by the enlarging uterus leads to stasis and further increases the risk for venous thrombosis and pulmonary emboli. This relative prothrombotic state represents a higher risk for women with pre-existing thrombophilia and for women who already have an indication for anticoagulation in the non-pregnant state, such as women with prosthetic heart valves.