I developed my first deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE) around 10 weeks pregnant with my second child. From then on, I was on enoxaparin sodium injections and everything was going great until 37 weeks, when the same feeling in my leg came back.
We returned to the hospital where an ultrasound once again showed a DVT in the same leg. They placed an IVC filter to catch any clots trying to go into my lungs and I had my daughter via a C-section the next day. I was so happy to have her safe and healthy, but my story wasn’t over.
My last surgery during that stay was a thrombectomy to remove the clots from my legs. When I saw my leg after, it looked like a balloon. It was so swollen and felt even worse than before. I was so discouraged, but they let me go home and I was happy to see my children.
One night I felt the pain again, but this time in my right leg. I could tell I had PEs again as well and thought there was no hope left for me. It killed me to leave my toddler and newborn home while once again I went to the hospital.
They told me they were going to perform another thrombectomy, but this time on both legs. I agreed, but I didn’t have hope.
Luckily, I had answers this time. The surgeon discovered I had May-Thurner syndrome and my left iliac vein was compressed 100%. They placed a stent to open up the vein. I was also diagnosed with antithrombin III deficiency, which may have changed my treatment plan if discovered sooner.
I thought I would go home and everything would be fine, but nobody prepared me for the mental toll this experience would have on me. I didn’t want to be home alone with my kids because I was scared something would happen to me. I was uncomfortable talking about future plans because I didn’t think I had a future. I felt so alone, but finding a support group and talking to others who have been through it has helped me. I feel like it’s now my purpose to help others as well.
It may not seem like it at first, but there is hope. Recovery can be a long road, but take it one day at a time and reach out to others.
Resources
May-Thurner syndrome
Antithrombin III deficiency
Know Your Risk
Thrombophilia
