Time of onset in vena cava compression syndrome | Vena-Cava Compression Syndrome

Time of onset in vena cava compression syndrome

There is no precisely defined time in pregnancy when the classic form of vena cava compression syndrome occurs. However, it can be said that the disease occurs in the third trimester, i.e. in the third part of pregnancy – in the last three months. Whether and how severe the syndrome occurs is decisively influenced by the size of the child, the weight and the position of the uterus before pregnancy.

Also the position of the child may play a role and whether the mother has any anatomical peculiarities. Expressed in weeks of pregnancy, vena cava compression syndrome is therefore most likely to occur between the 29th and 40th week of pregnancy. It is reassuring to know that premature births from the 26th week of pregnancy are considered to be viable and that an early termination of the pregnancy is not necessarily a disadvantage for the child.

Other situations of occurrence

The vena cava compression syndrome is usually only described in technical literature when lying down. However, pregnant women occasionally report that the symptoms also occur in a sitting or even standing position. This can also “only” be a vena cava compression syndrome, which is very pronounced and can become a serious burden for the pregnant woman.

Those affected usually have no choice but to try to survive the rest of the pregnancy unharmed.It is likely that the mother-to-be will have to stop working and reduce her physical activities to a minimum. Also someone should always be present, since it can come quite to increased falls. If the situation becomes too unbearable or if the patient’s health is at too great a risk, early delivery may have to be considered.

Other causes of vena cava compression syndrome should also be excluded. The vena cava compression syndrome can become noticeable not only in a lying position but also in a sitting position. Even though this is much less common, the symptoms lead to extensive restrictions in the patient’s everyday life.

For example, the job that is normally performed can no longer be performed effectively. Especially an office job is a big hurdle, where either the working time should be reduced or even a sick leave has to be taken. Even eating at the table can become a problem.

Some pregnant women describe an alleviation of the symptoms when their legs are elevated. Others have to eat their food in a (semi-)lying position. As with every pregnancy complication, if the health of the expectant mother is put at too great a risk, it is essential to consider terminating the pregnancy prematurely and having the baby earlier.