Pregnancy and the Risk for Blood Clots
Pregnancy and childbirth can increase the risk for blood clots.
A woman is at increased risk up to 3 months after her baby is born.
Risks for blood clots during pregnancy, childbirth, and up to 3 months after the baby is born include:
Prolonged immobility due to bed rest during pregnancy or recovery after delivery
A previous blood clot, a family history of clots, or a genetic blood clotting disorder
Delivery by C-section
Pregnancy at age 35 or older
Overweight or obesity
Smoking
Certain pregnancy complications, such as pregnancy with multiple babies or the use of fertility treatments involving hormones
Page last reviewed: August 29, 2018