Question

Your friend Leila has had severla miscarriages; therefore, her doctor has prescribed daily heparin injections to reduce the risk of miscarriage with her current pregnancy. Leila dislikes self-administering injections and asks you if heparin pills might be available instead. What should you tell her?

Answer 1

Heparin must be administered via injection because it cannot be effectively absorbed in pill form. Oral anticoagulants are not recommended during pregnancy due to risk of birth defects, thus Leila should discuss her concerns with her doctor for support or alternative solutions.

Step-by-step explanation:

To address your friend Leila's concern about heparin administration: Unfortunately, heparin cannot be taken in pill form because it is not effectively absorbed by the digestive system and would be broken down before it could work. Instead, heparin must be administered via injection to ensure that it enters the bloodstream directly and functions properly. While self-administering injections can be uncomfortable, it is crucial for the effectiveness of the treatment and the reduction of miscarriage risk. Oral anticoagulants like warfarin are not recommended during pregnancy due to the potential risk of birth defects and complications. It's important for Leila to discuss her concerns with her doctor, who can provide guidance and potentially offer support or alternatives such as a different injection technique or help from a healthcare professional.