In the postpartum period, when should anticoagulant therapy be resumed for a woman who recently gave birth and has a history of anticoagulant use?

In the postpartum period, resuming anticoagulant therapy after the delivery of a woman who has a history of anticoagulant use typically occurs within 6 hours. This timing is essential to balance the risk of thromboembolism due to the physiological changes that occur during pregnancy and postpartum with the risk of hemorrhage, especially if there were complications during delivery.

The rationale for resuming anticoagulation therapy promptly is based on the increased risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) postpartum, particularly in women who have already been on anticoagulants for pre-existing conditions. Immediate resumption can minimize this risk, ensuring the patient is adequately protected against VTE while monitoring for any potential bleeding complications.

The timing of 6 hours is a guideline that allows healthcare providers to monitor the mother closely in the immediate postpartum period for any signs of complications and to assess the need to adjust anticoagulation dosages according to clinical status.