For managing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in pregnancy, what is the recommended treatment?

The recommended treatment for managing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in pregnant patients focuses on balancing the risks of anticoagulation with the safety of both the mother and the developing fetus. The use of intravenous heparin for an initial period, followed by subcutaneous therapeutic heparin until term, is preferred. This approach allows for effective anticoagulation while minimizing the risk of bleeding complications associated with other agents.

Intravenous heparin can quickly achieve therapeutic levels, which is crucial in the acute management of DVT, especially in the pregnant population who may have higher risks associated with thromboembolic events. After the initial treatment period, transitioning to subcutaneous therapeutic heparin maintains anticoagulation while providing a route that is both effective and safer for use throughout the remainder of the pregnancy. This is particularly important as the matter of fetal health and maternal safety must be prioritized.

In contrast, using oral anticoagulants until delivery is typically avoided during pregnancy, as many of them can cross the placenta and pose risks to the fetus. Compression stockings, while helpful in managing venous symptoms and preventing post-thrombotic syndrome, do not treat the underlying thrombosis and therefore are not an adequate monotherapy for DVT. Duplication