Pulmonary embolism and pregnancy.

Pulmonary embolism is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality during pregnancy and the puerperium. The spectrum of venous thromboembolism is difficult to diagnose. Objective diagnostic testing is crucial and should not be delayed. Anticoagulation is the mainstay of therapy for deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Most of the literature and practice protocols for the treatment of pregnant women are based on data extrapolated from the nonpregnant population, and more research is needed to improve the understanding of the efficacy and safety of testing and therapy in the pregnant population.