Expert: Catherine Beier MS CBE - 1/26/2009

Question
I just gave birth to my fourth child, all 9 1/2 to 11 pounds and 23 inches long. I know I've had this disorder each time, although it was never as severe, or diagnosed before. Xrays showed my separation was 24 and they suggested an anti-clotting drug which I declined (I was concerned about breastfeeding). In the hospital I used a walker when I was having trouble getting around, and they gave me cuffs to massage my lower legs while I was in bed. My pain was severe, but only when it showed up. For the most part, I'm OK. I can walk and get around fine, it's things like getting up from a seated or lying down position, rolling over, etc. and it seems to move. Some days it will be hard to put pants on, etc. or just walking will be painful, and other days it will seem to be more in the back of my hips like it's clicking into place. Anyway, it's been a little over 2 weeks since I gave birth to my 10lb baby and I am doing better everyday. My question (sorry it's taking so long) is should I really be concerned about clotting and for how long? I sometimes get a little tingly in one leg when I am in bed and get an occasional pinching like a nerve in my right leg. I have no redness, swelling or bruising anywhere.

Answer
Kristin,

I'm so sorry you're going through this with a newborn and other children to care for, but it does sound as if you're mending every day.  The risk of clots is highest right after delivery, so I wouldn't be overly concerned at this point as long as you're walking and getting around by yourself.


Best,
Catherine