Thromboembolism in the obese pregnant woman.

We sought to quantify the added risk of thromboembolism in the obese parturient, evaluate risk factors for thromboembolism in the obese parturient, and provide suggestions as to when and in what form thromboembolism prophylaxis should be considered. Although recent guidelines from national colleges and advisory groups have attempted to guide the clinician in thromboprophylaxis in the obese parturient, the lack of adequate prospective series and trials has lead to some contrary recommendations. The arbitrary use of bed rest in the obese patient is a significant risk factor for venous thromboembolism without proven benefit.