Medically Reviewed By Experts Panel
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potentially serious condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a deep vein, most commonly in the legs. Women who have given birth are at an increased risk of developing DVT due to hormonal changes, decreased mobility, and other factors.
Here are some tips to help prevent DVT after delivery –
- Stay active – Moving around as soon as possible after giving birth can help prevent blood clots from forming. Walking around your room or doing light exercises can help improve blood flow and reduce the risk of DVT.
- Wear compression stockings – Compression stockings help improve blood flow and can help prevent DVT. They work by applying pressure to the legs, which helps blood flow back to the heart.
- Stay hydrated – Drinking plenty of fluids can help prevent dehydration, which can increase the risk of blood clots. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.
- Maintain a healthy weight – Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of DVT. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet can help reduce this risk.
- Avoid sitting for long periods – Sitting for extended periods, such as during long car rides or flights, can increase the risk of DVT. If you need to sit for an extended period, make sure to take frequent breaks and move around when possible.
- Take medication as prescribed – If your doctor has prescribed medication to prevent blood clots, make sure to take it as directed. This may include anticoagulant medications or blood thinners.
- Know the symptoms of DVT – It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of DVT, which include swelling, pain, warmth, and redness in the affected area. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
- Get up and move around after delivery – After delivery, it’s important to get up and move around as soon as possible. This can help improve blood flow and prevent blood clots from forming. If you had a caesarean delivery, your doctor may recommend that you wait a day or two before getting up and moving around.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a potentially serious condition that can occur after giving birth. Women who have given birth are at an increased risk of developing DVT due to hormonal changes, decreased mobility, and other factors. Staying active, wearing compression stockings, staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy weight, are some of the measures that can help prevent DVT. Talk to your doctor about your individual risk of developing DVT and any specific recommendations they may have for prevention.
