The Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center of Nevada 2020 W. Palomino Lane Suite 110 Las Vegas, Nevada 89106 702-385-2702
since July 3, 2010 Last updated July 3, 2010 webmaster RIS |
|
|
PREGNANCY AND ANTICARDIOLIPIN ANTIBODIES
I am a 38 yr old female who is looking for some direction when considering whether or not I want to try to become pregnant. 10 yrs ago, had 4 miscarriages during a 2 year period. These miscarriages varied between 8, 12, and 16 weeks. After the forth miscarriage, I had several tests completed at the Baylor University facility in Houston and the only thing that they could tell me was that I had elevated levels of the anticardiolipn antibody in my system. At that time, they really did not have a great deal of information on how to proceed.
I have not attempted to become pregnant since that time and have also re-married during this 10 year period. Now, between my age and the antibody, I am uncertain of how to approach this. I've asked my regular ob/gyn and they were educated enough in this particular area to give me advice...who do I talk to? A fertility specialist?
Any direction you can provide would be greatly appreciated. Ronda I would begin by speaking to a hematologist with expertise in clotting disorders. He or she will probably recommend a high risk obstetrician that is experienced in this area. Typically pregnant women are continued on low molecular weight heparin with or without aspirin to ensure that you go to term and deliver a healthy baby. Be careful of any fertility drugs, especially hormones which may increase your risk of blood clots I was told by my doctor that my miscarriages were caused by anticardiolipin. I am now scared to get pregnant. Should I take a baby aspirin everyday of my life? Does pregnancy increase the chances of having a blood clot?
While you do not give details of your condition, the literature supports
testing for coagulation abnormalities in patients that have had recurrent
miscarriages depending upon when in the pregnancy these have occured. While
no one can prove that the anticardiolipin antibody causes the miscarriage,
there is an association in some people. There is much literature on patients
who become pregnancy with this condition and the use of heparin products to
improve the likelihood of a normal pregnancy and healthy baby. A high risk
obstetrician should be consulted prior to your deciding to become pregnant
again.
|
|
Send mail to
rshtcn@aol.com with
questions or comments about this web site.
|