Grant: Knowledge Synthesis Grant

Low molecular weight heparin is a medication that is effective for preventing and treating blood clots in the legs and in the lungs. There have been some studies that have shown it may also be useful for preventing certain common pregnancy complications that are related to placental circulation. However, these studies have been fairly small and it is difficult to draw definitive conclusions on which to make recommendations for clinical practice. We plan to combine the data from several small studies in order to analyze all of the information together. The investigators from 6 studies have agreed to provide their data and collaborate for this project. This will allow us to evaluate whether this medication is most helpful for certain women (for example, those with the most severe and life threatening pregnancy complications). Our project also includes plans for communicating the results of the study to physicians who treat these women so that risks and benefits of treatement can be balanced for women with various pregnancy complications and they can receive the most safe and effective treatment available.