Emphasizing that pregnancy is a critical period in terms of venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk, Asst. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Betül Çelikol Sertbaş warned about the potential health threats posed by pregnancy and varicose veins. She explained the ways to make this period safe for both mother and baby.
Çakmak Erdem Hospital Cardiovascular Surgery Specialist Asst. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Betül Çelikol Sertbaş emphasized how critical the pregnancy period is in terms of the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE). Explaining the increasing risks of varicose veins during pregnancy one by one, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Betül Sertbaş said, “Pregnancy may pose an additional risk factor for patients with varicose veins. While pregnant women experience an increase in symptoms caused by varicose veins, this can be a great concern for both the mother and the physician.”
Complaints arising
Asst. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Betül Çelikol Sertbaş listed the complaints that occur during pregnancy as follows: “Increase in the prominence and number of blue-purple colored veins,
More edema in the legs than in pre-pregnancy or previous pregnancies,
More pain, feeling of fullness and restlessness,
There is an increase in night cramps.”
“Injections containing aspirin or DMAH may be prescribed”
“The biggest concern with these symptoms is that the clots that may form in the veins both remain in the legs and move towards the lungs.” Asst. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Betül Çelikol Sertbaş said, ”This condition called venous thromboembolism (VTE) can occur even in healthy individuals without varicose veins due to triggering causes. However, managing this condition becomes more complicated during pregnancy. For this reason, injections containing aspirin or DMAH may be prescribed to prevent clot formation during pregnancy.”
Aspirin and DMAH Use: Necessity and Evaluation
Stating that it is not mandatory for pregnant women with varicose veins to use aspirin or DMAH injection, Asst. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Betül Çelikol Sertbaş said, “However, pregnant women with a history of varicose veins should be evaluated in detail by Cardiovascular Surgery specialists” and explained how this process works as follows:
“Management of varicose veins during pregnancy requires a comprehensive clinical examination. Physicians evaluate the patient's complaints and health history. Especially for patients with a history of clots, appropriate treatment methods are determined according to the clinical condition of varicose veins and the results of the necessary examinations.”
Critical Information: What to Question
“History of conception (spontaneous or with treatment),
History of VTE (personal or family),
Pattern of presentation and vascular sites of VTE,
History of recurrent VTE,
Family history of recurrent or severe VTE,
Genetic coagulation factors,
History of multiple pregnancies,
The need for bed rest due to pregnancy-related risk factors,
The age, height and weight of the pregnant woman.”
Asst. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Betül Çelikol Sertbaş emphasized that each pregnancy is unique and treatment plans should be created individually.
The Key to Reducing Anxiety: Conscious follow-up and prevention
A conscious approach is essential to minimize the negative effects of pregnancy anxiety on health. Asst. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Betül Çelikol Sertbaş said, “Knowing the potential risks during pregnancy and evaluating the individual health status correctly ensures a safe pregnancy process. It is essential for pregnant women with a history of varicose veins or a history of clotted disease to meet with Cardiovascular Surgery specialists.”
Finally, “It is of great importance for women with varicose veins and planning pregnancy to have their pre-pregnancy examinations seriously and to follow their health status regularly. This approach will enable them to have a more comfortable and trouble-free pregnancy and birth process.”
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