Thrombophilia, often unknown, can affect pregnancy in different phases; early diagnosis and proper treatment are fundamental to ensure safe pregnancy
Many people heard for the first time during the Covid-19 pandemic, as the infection caused patients to increase, leading to events such as thrombosis, strokes or heart attacks. But thrombophilia is a condition that goes beyond: as its name implies, it is the increased trend of thrombus formation (clots) in various parts of the body.
Thrombophilia may be hereditary-when transmitted genetically-or acquired, arising after diseases such as COVID-19 or autoimmune conditions such as antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. Among the hereditary forms, the mutation of Leiden factor V and the mutation of the Protrombin gene is highlighted. Both alter natural coagulation mechanisms, favoring the onset of thrombus in higher risk situations such as pregnancy.
Thrombophilia and its impacts on pregnancy
In women’s life, the greatest chance of thrombosis occurs precisely during pregnancy and in the postpartum, which covers the first six weeks after delivery. A, by itself, is a phase in which blood becomes more prone to coagulation – a natural adaptation of the body to prevent bleeding. However, in women with thrombophilia, this risk is amplified.
The presence of thrombophilia can lead to complications such as:
- Recurring abortions in the first quarter
- Hypertensive disease of pregnancy (preeclampsia)
- Intrauterine growth restriction
- Premature Placenta detachment
- late fetal death
In more advanced phases of pregnancy, placental thrombosis (placenta infarctions) may compromise fetal well-being, requiring intense monitoring and often anticipation of childbirth.
When to suspect and how to diagnose
Hereditary thrombophilia should be suspected of personal or family history of thrombosis-especially if events occurred before age 50-or in women who have faced gestational complications, such as two or more consecutive gestational losses, fetal growth restriction or severe preeclampsia.
The diagnosis is made through specific blood tests, which should ideally be collected outside the gestational period or during breaks in the use of anticoagulant medications for greater accuracy.
Treatment and Care
After diagnosis, treatment includes the use of anticoagulants, such as low molecular weight heparin, which is secure during pregnancy, and acetylsalicylic acid at low doses. The goal is to reduce the risk of placental thrombosis and favor the healthy evolution of pregnancy.
Accompaniment should be done by a high-risk pregnancies obstetrician with rigorous mother and fetus monitoring throughout pregnancy and postpartum.
In addition, it is important to recognize and prevent other factors that increase the risk of thrombosis, such as:
- extended air trips
- infections
- Immobilization periods
- Use of contraceptives or hormones for infertility treatment
Simple measures, such as the use of compression socks and the practice of regular movement on long trips, can be oriented by the doctor to minimize these risks.
FINAL CONSIDERATIONS
Although thrombophilia is a silent condition, its impact on pregnancy can be significant. Early diagnosis, pregnancy planning and proper treatment considerably increase the chances of reproductive success and safe pregnancy. With modern medicine and correct follow -up, women with thrombophilia can realize the dream of maternity in a healthy and safe way.
*By Dani Ejzenberg (CRM 100673)
Gynecologist and Assisted Reproduction Specialist – Nilo Frantz Clinic
