Mercy Vascular Surgeon Discusses Deep Vein Thrombosis in Women

Deep Vein Thrombosis, commonly known as DVT, can clot blood deep inside a vein in the leg or pelvis. DVT can damage the tissue around it or if the clot moves to a lung, it can stop oxygen from getting to the rest of the body.

While men generally are more likely to have DVT, pregnant women and those using hormone replacement therapy for menopause may not realize they are at higher risk for it.

Dr. Alain Tanbe, a vascular surgeon at The Vascular Center at Mercy Medical Center, said it is very important to stay active.

"The way the blood gets back up to your heart is by using your calf muscles. Every time your calf muscles flex, your blood shoots up. Being active and wearing compression socks are very important during pregnancy because this prevents the blood from pooling in the legs," Dr. Tanbe said.

Those who have questions about hormone replacement therapy should discuss it with their doctor because there are alternatives.

Chances of developing a DVT are four to five times greater in women who are expecting a baby, and up to six weeks after delivery, because of hormonal and physical changes in the body.

View vascular surgeon Dr. Alain Tanbe's interview regarding deep vein thrombosis.