Venous thromboembolism (VTE) in pregnancy and puerperium
Venous thromboembolism (VTE) during pregnancy and the postpartum period (puerperium) is a significant concern due to the increased risk of blood clot formation in the venous system. Pregnancy itself is a hypercoagulable state, meaning there is a higher tendency for blood to clot, which is a natural protective mechanism to prevent excessive bleeding during childbirth. However, this increased clotting tendency can also lead to VTE.
VTE encompasses two main conditions: deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE). DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins of the leg or pelvic area, while PE occurs when a clot breaks off and travels to the lungs, causing a potentially life-threatening condition.