Final Answer:
Anticoagulants, specifically heparin, are administered to women with a history of clotting disorders during pregnancy to prevent thrombotic complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
During pregnancy, there is an increased risk of developing clotting disorders, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE), due to hormonal changes and the hypercoagulable state.
Women with a history of clotting disorders, like antiphospholipid syndrome, are at an even higher risk. Heparin, an anticoagulant, is preferred over other blood thinners because it doesn't cross the placenta and is considered safer for the developing fetus.
Heparin works by inhibiting the formation of blood clots, reducing the risk of thrombotic events. This is crucial during pregnancy to ensure proper blood flow to the placenta and prevent complications that could jeopardize both maternal and fetal health.