Antiphospholipid Syndrome and Pregnancy

Topic Overview

Antiphospholipid syndrome is a rare autoimmune disease that has been closely linked to some cases of recurrent miscarriage. Antiphospholipid syndrome increases blood clotting and can cause dangerous blood clots (thrombosis) and circulatory problems. For some women, the only sign of this condition is an early miscarriage, a later pregnancy loss related to a poorly functioning placenta, or preeclampsia.

Women with antiphospholipid syndrome are treated during pregnancy with blood-thinning medicines (heparin, aspirin, or both) to prevent clotting problems and pregnancy loss.

Other types of blood-clotting disorders (thrombophilias) can cause similar pregnancy problems. Your doctor can test for various blood-clotting disorders.

Related Information

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerSarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerFemi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last RevisedApril 18, 2011
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: April 18, 2011
Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Femi Olatunbosun, MB, FRCSC - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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