Can Heparin be used in pregnancy for low protein S?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I am 7 months pregnant, and my first pregnancy was a missed abortion. During this pregnancy, I underwent tests like thrombophilia profile and protein S antigen test, in which my protein S levels were found low: 58% according to protein S antigen and 32.90% as per protein S functional test. The doctor has told me to take Heparin (Enoxaparin) injection daily of 40 mg throughout my pregnancy and for six weeks after delivery.

Kindly suggest.

Answered by Dr. Prakash. H. M.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Based on your query, my opinion is as follows:

1. Protein S antigen levels are borderline; however, the functional activity level is a bit low.

2. This increases the risk of clotting, which is always increased in pregnancy.

3. To reduce anticoagulants like Heparin is necessary. Ecosprin will reduce the activity of platelets, and hence both will be helpful.

Do continue as prescribed. Watch out for any purpura or bleeding spots in the skin. You can get a prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin time done to check the efficacy of Heparin, if necessary.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

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Answered by Dr. Prakash. H. M.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Divya Banu M

October 27, 2019

May 14, 2026

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Prakash. H. M.