Diagnostic tests are essential to prevent complications during pregnancy. One of them, which is not as widespread, is to use the technique of Doppler ultrasound to detect thrombi in pregnant women.
Thrombosis in pregnancy is a clot that forms inside the blood vessel, usually in the veins of the legs, which can be a very serious problem, and in some women prone to circulatory conditions it is necessary to keep it under control.
Normally, during pregnancy swelling or edema occurs due to the accumulation of excess fluid in the tissues, especially in the legs, but without major complications.
However, excessive inflammation, redness or pain in the legs can alert you to the risk of venous thrombosis. In fact, venous thromboembolic disease, represented by deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, is the leading cause of maternal mortality associated with pregnancy.
Canadian researchers found that while no test has 100% sensitivity, performing serial ultrasound for seven days with the doppler technique in the iliac vein excludes the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis in symptomatic pregnant women.
They then consider using it as a diagnostic method in pregnancy and thus reduce the risk of thrombosis and associated complications.
Anyway, it is always recommended check with your doctor if you suffer from excessive swelling or pain in the legs. It is usually a common ailment in pregnancy, but it is preferable to keep it under control and avoid problems.
