After a C-section, a common injection given is heparin.
Heparin is a medication that helps to prevent deep vein thrombosis (DVT). DVT is a condition where blood clots form in the deep veins of the body, usually in the legs, and it can be a serious complication after surgery, including a C-section.
Heparin Injections After C-Section
If your doctor determines that you have a higher risk of developing DVT, you will be prescribed heparin injections. Here are some important points about these injections:
- Dosage and Frequency: Typically, you will need to inject yourself with heparin once a day.
- Duration: This treatment usually lasts for 10 days, but it can sometimes be extended to 6 weeks depending on individual risk factors.
- Supply: You will be provided with a full supply of heparin injections when you leave the hospital.
- Training: Healthcare professionals will teach you how to administer the injections yourself.
Why is Heparin Given?
The primary reason for giving heparin injections after a C-section is to reduce the risk of DVT. Factors that may increase the risk of DVT include:
- Major surgery, like a C-section.
- Prolonged periods of immobility.
- A personal or family history of blood clots.
By using heparin, healthcare providers can help to prevent the serious health problems that can be caused by blood clots.
Summary
To summarize, one of the common injections given after a C-section is heparin. This injection is used to help prevent the formation of blood clots and is administered daily for a specified period. You will be trained on how to give yourself the injections before leaving the hospital.
