Pulmonary thromboembolism, blood clots in the lungs, is increasingly recognised as a serious and underreported cause of maternal death in Kenya and across Africa.
While postpartum haemorrhage remains the most cited danger, emerging data show that thromboembolic complications are quietly claiming lives, especially in post-cesarean and post-delivery recovery.
What Is Pulmonary Thromboembolism?
Pulmonary thromboembolism (PE) occurs when a blood clot, often formed in the deep veins of the legs (deep vein thrombosis or DVT), travels to the lungs and blocks a pulmonary artery. This restricts blood flow, reduces oxygen levels, and can lead to sudden death if untreated.
“A pulmonary embolism is a blood clot that blocks and stops blood flow to an artery in the lung. In most cases, the blood clot starts in a deep vein in the leg and travels to the lung,” according Mayo Clinic.
Kenya’s Maternal Mortality Crisis: The Hidden Role of Clots
According to Kenya’s Ministry of Health, maternal mortality remains “unacceptably high,” with Medical Services PS Dr Ouma Oluga noting in June 2025 that:
“We are doing horribly bad compared to our neighbours… despite significant efforts, preventable deaths persist.”
While postpartum haemorrhage is widely recognised, thromboembolic events like PE are increasingly implicated, especially in cases involving cesarean sections, prolonged immobility, or undiagnosed clotting disorders.
The WHO Africa Region reports that 70% of global maternal deaths occur in sub-Saharan Africa, and the pace of reduction is too slow to meet 2030 targets. The Africa CDC’s Reproductive Health Strategic Priorities call for integrated maternal care that includes early detection and management of blood clots.
Why Women Are More Vulnerable
Women face elevated clotting risks due to:
- Pregnancy and postpartum changes in blood volume and clotting factors
- Hormonal contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy
- Surgical procedures, especially C-sections
- Genetic clotting disorders like Factor V Leiden
- Prolonged immobility during recovery or travel
Symptoms of Pulmonary Embolism
Early detection is critical. Symptoms include:
- Sudden shortness of breath
- Sharp chest pain, especially when breathing deeply
- Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
- Coughing up blood
- Lightheadedness or fainting
These signs require immediate medical attention.
Prevention and Policy: What Needs to Change
To reduce clot-related deaths among women, especially in Kenya and Africa, we need:
- Routine VTE screening during pregnancy and postpartum care
- Training for health workers to recognise clotting symptoms
- Access to diagnostic tools like D-dimer tests and imaging
- Community awareness about risk factors and symptoms
- Balanced policies that protect both safety and reproductive rights
Blood clots, especially pulmonary embolism, are no longer rare complications. They are a growing, often silent threat to women’s health, particularly in maternal care. With better diagnostics, stronger health systems, and targeted awareness, we can save lives.
