Heparin and osteoporosis during pregnancy: 2002 update

Although significant bone mass loss is rare during pregnancy, some situations may increase the risk of symptomatic osteoporosis. Heparin may be necessary for a number of pregnant women with systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome. The osteopenic effect of heparin is low even during pregnancy, and recent data point to a more favourable profile of low-molecular-weight heparins as compared with unfractionated heparin. Lactation results in a significant increase of calcium demands and may be a higher risk period for women at risk for osteoporosis.