DVT and Flying during Pregnancy

What does DVT mean?
DVT stands for Deep Vein Thrombosis. It is a blood clot that forms in a deep leg vein. Deep veins are those that are large and the main supply to all the smaller veins. Deep leg veins go through the muscles of the calf and thighs and can’t be seen through the skin. When you have DVT your vein is either partially or completely blocked by a clot. The legs are not the only location where DVT is possible but the calf is the most common.

Why do Blood Clots Occur?
Blood does not naturally clot, it flows freely through the veins and should not normally come into any trouble doing so. The blood flow in leg veins is helped by our leg movements as the muscles in our legs help to squeeze the veins. Sometimes the blood clot happens for no apparent reason however, there are some situations which can significantly increase the risk of blood clots. These are just a few of the main causes of a DVT.

1. Immobility slows down the flow of blood in our body which makes it more likely to cause clotting.  This includes long journeys, or an illness or injury that causes you to become immobile for some time.

2. A surgical operation that lasts more than 30 minutes can cause clotting because the legs are still and the flow of blood in them becomes very slow.

3. Damage to the inside lining of the vein can increase the risk of blood clotting so if you have had DVT in the past you have an increased risk of developing one in the future.

4. Pregnancy can also increase the risk. Every 1 in 1000 pregnant women develops a DVT.

Can I Get DVT if I fly during pregnancy?
Generally speaking, yes you can get DVT if you fly during pregnancy just like anyone else who flies whether they are pregnant or not. However, pregnancy is a possible cause of DVT and increases the risk of a DVT developing so you are more likely to have this problem. Long flights can often be causes of DVT on their own because they require being immobile for a long period of time. That is why it is important for you to get up and move around during a long flight. Make sure you go for regular walks to stretch out your legs. Flying during pregnancy is perfectly safe and most airlines will allow travel up to 35 weeks into the pregnancy.

I have had a DVT before and I am now pregnant, should I fly?
Before you make any travel plans or decide to fly you should consult with your doctor first. It may be dangerous for you to fly whilst pregnant if you have had any DVT problems in the past. This is because flying and pregnancy both increase the risk of your DVT and past DVT problems can cause damage to the inner layer of the veins which in turn also increases your risk of clotting. This in essence means it’s probably best for you and your unborn child to not fly during your pregnancy and your doctor may inform you that flying is strictly off limits because of this.