#  Preventing Blood Clots After Birth 

 

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## Blood Clot, DVT, and PE—What Are They?

- A **blood clot** is a clump of blood that forms inside a blood vessel.
- A **deep vein thrombosis (DVT)** is a blood clot in a vein, most commonly in the leg. A DVT can be dangerous if part of the clot breaks off and travels to the lungs.
- A **pulmonary embolism (PE)** is a clot in the lungs. A PE can make it hard to breathe and can be life-threatening.

**Signs of a Blood Clot**

Call your healthcare provider right away if you have:

- Chest pain or pressure
- Dizziness/sudden weakness (feeling faint or passing out)
- Swelling, redness, or pain in one leg
- Trouble breathing or sudden shortness of breath



## Why Am I at Risk for a Blood Clot after Birth?

Your blood clots more easily during pregnancy and after birth. This helps protect you from too much bleeding during birth.

Your risk of a blood clot is highest in the first few weeks after birth. Some things can raise your risk even further, such as:

- A family history of blood clots
- Having had a blood clot in the past
- A health condition that makes your blood clot more easily
- Certain health problems during pregnancy or birth
- Having a cesarean birth (C-section) or another recent surgery
- Not being able to move around much

Your care team will look at your health and your birth to decide if you need extra attention or care to prevent a blood clot.

## What Can I Do to Prevent a Blood Clot?

- **Drink fluids.** Drink enough water and other fluids to stay hydrated.
- **Keep moving.** Try to get up and walk often. If you are sitting or lying down for a long time, move your feet and legs.
- **Wear compression stockings.** Use these during the day to help blood flow and reduce swelling.
- **Take Lovenox (enoxaparin)** if it is prescibed for you.

### What Is Lovenox?

**Lovenox (enoxaparin)** is a medicine that helps prevent blood clots. If you have a higher risk of a blood clot, your care team may prescribe it.

Lovenox is given as a small shot under the skin. It usually comes in a syringe that is ready to use. Your nurse will show you how to give the shot before you go home from the hospital.

**How Long Will I Need to Take Lovenox?**

- Many people who need Lovenox to prevent a blood clot take it for about 10 days after birth.
- You may need it for longer if you have a higher risk of blood clots.
- Finish all of the Lovenox shots you have been given.

**Where Do I Give the Lovenox Shot?**

- Give Lovenox in the fatty area of your belly.
- Choose a spot on the right or left side of your belly, at least two inches away from your belly button.
- Use a different spot each time.
- Do not give the shot in skin that is bruised, red, sore, hard, or has a scar.

**What Should I Know while Taking Lovenox?**

- It is common to have a small bruise where you give the shot.
- You may bleed or bruise more easily.

**Step-by-step Instructions**

1. Wash your hands.
2. Choose a spot on your belly. Stay at least two inches away from your belly button.
3. Clean the skin with an alcohol wipe. Let it dry.
4. Remove the cap from the needle.
5. Gently pinch a fold of skin between your fingers.
6. Put the whole needle straight into the skin.
7. Push the plunger down until all the medicine has been given.
8. Remove the needle. Do not rub the area after the shot.
9. Put the used syringe in a sharps container or empty plastic milk jug.

Contact your care provider if you have any questions about this medication.