VTE treatment during pregnancy and while breastfeeding

To treat venous thromboembolism (VTE) (ie deep vein thrombosis [DVT] or pulmonary embolism [PE]) during pregnancy and the postpartum period, and while breastfeeding, use low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) (eg dalteparin, enoxaparin). See Low molecular weight heparin for VTE treatment for dosages.

Warfarin taken during pregnancy is associated with fetal harm and should not be used, except under specialist advice. Warfarin can be used while breastfeeding.

Avoid apixaban, rivaroxaban and dabigatran during pregnancy and while breastfeeding because there are no safety data for such use.

Recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of DVT and PE in pregnancy and the postpartum period have been made by the The American Society of Hematology. Recommendations for the diagnosis and management of PE in pregnancy and the postpartum period have been made by the Society of Obstetric Medicine of Australia and New Zealand.