Vol. 23 No. 2 (2024)
Literature Review

Venous thromboembolism during air travel in pregnant women

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  • Isabel de C. N. Senfft,
  • Marina A. Zulchner,
  • Marcos A. Marques,
  • Rossano K. A. Fiorelli,
  • Stenio Karlos A. Fiorelli,
  • Bernardo C. S. Barros
Isabel de C. N. Senfft
Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro
Bio
Marina A. Zulchner
Bio
Marcos A. Marques
Bio
Rossano K. A. Fiorelli
Bio
Stenio Karlos A. Fiorelli
Bio
Bernardo C. S. Barros
Bio
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12957/bjhbs.2024.88700

Published 2024-12-20

Keywords

  • Thrombosis,
  • Pregnancy,
  • Anticoagulants,
  • Air travel

How to Cite

1.
de C. N. Senfft I, A. Zulchner M, A. Marques M, Alvim Fiorelli RK, Alvim Fiorelli SK, Senra Barros BC. Venous thromboembolism during air travel in pregnant women. BJHBS [Internet]. 2024 Dec. 20 [cited 2025 Jan. 22];23(2). Available from: https://bjhbs.hupe.uerj.br/bjhbs/article/view/193

Copyright (c) 2024 Brazilian Journal of Health and Biomedical Sciences

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.

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Abstract

Introduction Air travel (AT) has become an integral part of modern life, including for pregnant women who may need to travel for various reasons. While the overall risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) during AT is low, specific populations, such as pregnant women, face significantly higher risks. This study explores the relationship between air travel and VTE in pregnant women, examining the risk factors, epidemiology, and preventive strategies. Objectives To analyze the incidence of VTE in pregnant women during air travel, identify associated risk factors, and evaluate prophylactic measures to mitigate these risks. Methodology and Resources A comprehensive review of existing literature was conducted, focusing on studies related to VTE incidence in air travel, especially in pregnant women. Data from epidemiological and review studies were reviewed to assess the risk factors and the efficacy of prophylactic measures, including mechanical and pharmacological interventions. Results and Discussion The review indicates that pregnant women are at an elevated risk for VTE, particularly during flights exceeding 6 hours. Contributing factors include venous stasis, hypercoagulability, and hypoxia. Prophylactic measures, such as the use of graduated compression stockings and low molecular weight heparin (LMWH), are recommended for high-risk individuals, though routine pharmacological prophylaxis is not generally indicated. Conclusion The study highlights the importance of individualized risk assessment for pregnant women planning air travel. While general preventive measures should be universally recommended, pharmacological prophylaxis should be reserved for those at high risk. Further research is needed to refine guidelines and ensure the safety of pregnant travelers.

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