Pregnancy and Blood Clots: When Is the Risk Highest?

Pregnancy increases the risk of blood clots — but one of the most important risk periods is often overlooked: the weeks after delivery. In this video, we explain why pregnancy makes blood clots more likely, how that risk changes throughout pregnancy and postpartum, which factors can increase the risk further, and which symptoms deserve prompt medical attention. You’ll learn about previous blood clots, thrombophilia, cesarean delivery, age, body weight, multiple pregnancy and IVF — as well as the difference between common pregnancy-related leg swelling and symptoms that may require further assessment. We also discuss practical prevention, when preventive anticoagulation may be considered, and why your individual risk should be reassessed after delivery. Chapters 00:00 Pregnancy and Blood Clot Risk 00:14 Why Pregnancy Increases the Risk 00:40 The Risk Doesn't End After Delivery 01:00 Why the Postpartum Period Matters 01:29 Who Has a Higher Risk? 01:54 One Leg vs. Both Legs: What to Watch For 02:17 Emergency Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore 02:29 What Can You Do to Reduce the Risk? 02:40 Preventive Anticoagulation 03:10 Tell Your Healthcare Team Your Risk Factors 03:24 A Vascular Surgeon's Take 03:48 The Practical Takeaway 04:33 Learn More About Pregnancy and Blood Clots This video is for educational purposes only and does not replace individual medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you develop sudden shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, or feel like you may collapse, seek emergency medical attention. Reviewed by Daniel Mendonça, Vascular Surgeon 📚 Read the complete evidence-based article: https://cardioflowlab.com/pregnancy-a... https://cardioflowlab.com/pregnancy-a... 📩 Get one clear, evidence-based vascular health topic every week: The Vascular Brief https://cardioflowlab.beehiiv.com/ Legal Notice / Impressum: https://cardioflowlab.com/impressum #Pregnancy #BloodClots #DVT #Postpartum #VascularHealth #CardioFlowLab