Heparin use during pregnancy

Abstract

The use of anticoagulants in pregnancy is problematic. In this focus, the authors reviewed the problems associated with the use of vitamin K antagonist during pregnancy. Then, they presented the general considerations on the use of unfractioned heparin and low molecular weight heparin during pregnancy. Finally they established the therapeutic recommendations for anticoagulation during pregnancy including treatment and prophylaxis of venous thromboembolism, anticoagulation of pregnant women with mechanical heart valves and the management of pregnant women with antiphospholipid antibodies and multiple pregnancy losses.