Blood clots in the leg or lung
The risk of blood clots is higher after birth. A swollen, red or painful leg, or sudden chest pain or trouble breathing, needs urgent care.
Most important
Chest pain or trouble breathing
Call 911. A clot in the lung is an emergency.
Important to know
- CDC warning signs include swelling, redness or pain of your leg, trouble breathing, and chest pain.
What may happen
- An ultrasound of the leg.
- Blood thinners if a clot is found.
Why
Pregnancy changes blood clotting, and surgery or less movement can add to the risk.
What varies
Our source is a general vascular page, not postpartum prescribing guidance.
Questions to ask
- Why do I need an ultrasound?
- How long will I need treatment?
Prototype draft. Not yet clinically reviewed. Your own care team's instructions come first. About this app
Sources
Summaries are drafted from these public sources. No hospital has endorsed this app.
Henry Ford Health · Detroit-area system, general vascular care
Deep Vein Thrombosis(opens in a new tab)- Published
- Date not stated
- Checked
- 2026-10-24
- Access
- Read from a search index copy
Applies to: Published by one health system. Procedures at your hospital may differ.
Limitations: General DVT resource, not postpartum-specific prescribing guidance.
CDC · National authoritative supplement
Urgent Maternal Warning Signs and Symptoms(opens in a new tab)- Published
- 2024-05-15
- Checked
- 2026-10-24
- Access
- Page read in full
Applies to: National or state guidance, not a hospital procedure.
Limitations: Not a diagnosis tool; hospital-specific escalation wording needs clinical review.