Comparison of the kinetics of clot formation, fibrinogen, fibrinolysis, and hematocrit in pregnant women and adults

Abstract

Pregnant women in labor and adult controls were studied for differences in the kinetics of clot formation, using the thromboelastograph, a sensitive optical instrument which allows for a continuous recording of all phases of coagulation and gives information regarding the mechanical properties of the clot. Pregnant women were found to be significantly more hypercoagulable than adult controls. This hypercoagulability was further demonstrated by higher fibrinogen levels and less over-all fibrinolytic activity (longer fibrinolysis times) as compared to adult controls. Pregnant women in premature labor had higher fibrinogen levels and less fibrinolytic activity (longer fibrinolysis times) than those at term. The significances of these findings are discussed.