Pulmonary Embolism in Pregnancy - Stories of Survival and Hope

Pulmonary Embolism Pregnancy Stories: Coping With This Life-Threatening Condition

Pregnancy is meant to be a beautiful time filled with joyful anticipation. But for some women, it brings the frightening complication of pulmonary embolism. A pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot blocks an artery in the lungs. This prevents oxygenated blood from reaching the rest of the body. It's a potentially fatal condition.

While terrifying, pulmonary embolism during pregnancy is treatable with prompt medical care. Many women go on to deliver healthy babies after recovering. By sharing their stories, these moms help break the silence around blood clots in pregnancy. Their experiences provide hope and crucial awareness to other expecting mothers.

Kim's Pulmonary Embolism Emergency During Pregnancy

Kim, age 36, was 30 weeks pregnant when she suddenly experienced sharp chest pains and trouble breathing. She knew something was very wrong and went straight to the ER. There doctors discovered she had a massive bilateral pulmonary embolism, aka blood clots in both lungs. It was a frightening diagnosis.

Kim was admitted to the ICU for treatment right away. This included receiving fast-acting "clot-busting" medication via an IV to help dissolve the clots. After a week of recovery in the hospital, Kim was able to go home where she rested in bed. Against the odds, she went on to carry her pregnancy closer to full term and delivered a healthy baby girl.

While still adjusting to life as a new mom, Kim courageously shares her pulmonary embolism story to raise awareness. She hopes more women will recognize this health threat during pregnancy and catch it sooner like she did. Her story highlights how quick medical care is absolutely crucial when it comes to surviving a PE.

Amanda's Recurrent Pulmonary Embolisms While Pregnant

At age 33, Amanda was overjoyed to finally conceive after two years of trying. But this excitement faded at 10 weeks pregnant when she suddenly felt extremely weak and short of breath. At the ER, tests revealed she had a large pulmonary embolism caused by a blood clot in her leg.

After a week in the hospital receiving anticoagulant therapy, Amanda was sent home to recover on blood thinners. Tragically, a few weeks later at 19 weeks pregnant she suffered another PE. Thankfully doctors were able to dissolve the new clots, and Amanda was monitored extremely closely for recurrent clots throughout the rest of her otherwise healthy pregnancy.

Now a mother of two, Amanda understands she has a clotting disorder that puts her at higher risk for pulmonary embolism. She shares her multiple PE story to encourage women to learn the signs and be pushy about testing if they suspect a clot. She's grateful her providers took her breathing issues seriously.

Stephanie's Near-Fatal Experience With PE After Childbirth

Stephanie delivered a healthy baby boy via C-section. But on her second day postpartum, she suddenly felt like she couldn't breathe. At the hospital, Stephanie was diagnosed with a massive pulmonary embolism caused by a large blood clot in her pelvis.

Despite rushing emergency treatment, Stephanie's PE was so severe that she went into cardiac arrest. Thankfully doctors were able to resuscitate her and she spent over a week in the ICU receiving anticoagulant medication to stop more clots from forming. After her close brush with death, Stephanie is still healing both physically and emotionally.

By telling her story, Stephanie hopes to remind new moms they are still at risk for this condition after giving birth. She advocates for better education around postpartum pulmonary embolisms so women know the warning signs that could save a life.

Understanding Pulmonary Embolism Risks and Symptoms During Pregnancy

Any woman can experience a pulmonary embolism during pregnancy or the postpartum period. However, those with certain risk factors have higher odds. Understanding these risks and recognizing symptoms quickly is imperative.

Risk Factors for Blood Clots and PE During Pregnancy

Factors that increase a woman's chance of developing a dangerous blood clot in pregnancy include:

• Obesity
• Age over 35
• Previous blood clot or family history
• Limited mobility from injury or illness
• Smoking cigarettes
• Preeclampsia or hypertension
• Multiple pregnancies like twins
• Caesarean delivery
• Inherited clotting disorders like Factor V Leiden

Symptoms of a PE to Recognize

Classic pulmonary embolism symptoms include:

• Sudden shortness of breath
• Rapid breathing or chest tightness
• Coughing up blood
• Racing heart rate
• Sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing
• Passing out or collapsing

Promptly call 911 or go to an emergency room if experiencing any of these. Every minute counts when it comes to surviving a pulmonary embolism.

Diagnosing PE in Pregnant Women

Doctors will ask about risk factors and symptoms when a pulmonary embolism is suspected. A D-dimer blood test is often ordered too which helps detect clot presence. If positive, imaging like a CT scan, MRI or ultrasound will check for clots in the lungs.

Treatment focuses on thinning the blood and breaking up existing clots before they do further harm. Oxygen therapy may be given to improve breathing difficulties. For severe clots, an interventional radiology procedure called a catheter-directed thrombolysis can rapidly dissolve the clot.

Preventing Blood Clots and PE During Pregnancy

While not always preventable, steps can be taken to lower the chances of developing a dangerous blood clot in pregnancy:

Stay Active and Exercise

Being active during pregnancy promotes healthy circulation and prevents blood from pooling and clotting in the veins. Take regular short walks and do light exercises approved by your doctor.

Rest With Legs Elevated

Prop your legs up on pillows or footstools when resting. This takes pressure off the veins and improves blood flow.

Wear Compression Stockings

Compression socks or stockings gently squeeze the legs to keep blood moving. They prevent pooling that can lead to clots.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water during pregnancy to maintain blood volume and avoid thickening of the blood.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity is a major risk factor for developing blood clots. Eat a balanced diet and gain weight within recommended guidelines.

Quit Smoking

Smoking cigarettes damages blood vessels and thickens blood. Stop smoking before getting pregnant or as early in pregnancy as possible.

Discuss Medication Options

If at very high risk for blood clots, your doctor may prescribe anticoagulant medication or aspirin as a preventive measure.

Recovering Emotionally From a Pulmonary Embolism in Pregnancy

Surviving a PE is extremely traumatic both physically and mentally. Be patient and gentle with yourself during the recovery process. Seek emotional support and counseling if needed. Know that with time, most women go on to heal and bond with their babies.

Allow Yourself to Process the Experience

A pulmonary embolism is a near death event. Give yourself space and grace to fully process the fear, anxiety, sadness, anger or other emotions that arise.

Join a Support Group

Connecting with other moms who've survived a pregnancy-related PE can help you feel less alone. Share stories and tips on coping through online or local support groups.

Consider Counseling or Therapy

If you went through trauma from your PE, speaking to a counselor can facilitate healing. They can help you manage PTSD symptoms like flashbacks, panic attacks or hypervigilance.

Practice Self-Care and Stress Management

Make time for relaxing activities like yoga, meditation, massage and quality time with loved ones. This supports mental health and your overall well-being.

Focus on Your Health and Recovery

Don't rush back into normal activity until your doctor gives the all-clear. Rest and focus on healing both body and mind. Let family and friends handle chores for now.

Know There is Hope

With time and support, most PE survivors regain their emotional strength and ability to enjoy new motherhood. The difficult experience often brings a greater appreciation for life's gifts.

Moving Forward After a Pregnancy-Related PE

Although long-term medication is usually necessary after a PE, many women go on to have healthy future pregnancies. Work closely with doctors to reduce risks and monitor for recurrent clots. Stay active, avoid smoking, and speak up right away if any concerning symptoms arise.

Pulmonary embolism during or after pregnancy is scary. But it is survivable thanks to modern medicine. Share your story to provide hope and comfort to other new moms facing this condition. Together we can raise awareness and save lives.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.