Your body after baby
- Lots of things happen to your body right after giving birth.
- Some body changes are painless, others are uncomfortable.
- Stress and fatigue can leave you feeling lots of emotions.
What is deep vein thrombophlebitis (DVT)?
Deep vein thrombophlebitis (DVT) is a blood clot inside a vein. DVT is rare, but it can be a serious health problem if it’s not treated. Without treatment, the blood clot can travel to your heart and lungs and block blood flow. This can cause chest pain, breathing problems and, in rare cases, even death.Blood clots also can happen in the veins around your pelvic area. This is more common if you’ve had a cesarean birth (c-section). A c-section is surgery in which your baby is born through a cut that your health care provider makes in your belly and uterus.
Signs of DVT include a high fever and tenderness, pain or swelling in your leg, especially around your calf.
Hormonal changes make all women at risk for DVT after giving birth. Other risks for DVT include:- Having a c-section—Your chances of having a DVT in your leg is about 3 to 5 times greater after a c-section than after a vaginal birth
- Being obese
- Being older than 35
- Not being able to walk around after surgery as much as your provider wants you to
If you think you may have DVT, call your health care provider immediately. You may need to go to the hospital. Your provider may give you a blood thinner to treat the clot and prevent any new clots.
Have questions?
Featured question:
When will my period return after the baby is born?
