Traditional Practice of Fluid Restriction among Patients with Puerperium Associated Cerebral Venous Thrombosis in Rural India

Background: Puerperium is well recognized as a period of increased susceptibility for thrombotic events like Cerebral Venous Thrombosis (CVT). In addition to the physiological changes, several other factors also cause dehydration in puerperium, making it a very vulnerable period for thrombotic events. Fluid intake may be restricted for mothers in early days after child birth in certain rural areas of southern India. The aim of this study was to estimate the fluid intake of patients with puerperium associated CVT. Materials and Methods: Interview was conducted among 35 patients with puerperal CVT and their primary caregivers to obtain the details of fluid intake during puerperium. Results: Most of the patients admitted with CVT hailed from rural areas (74.1%). Fluid restriction was practiced during post-partum period by 77.1% (≤1500ml) of the patients admitted with CVT. Conclusion: Varying degrees of fluid restriction is traditionally practiced in several areas of South India, especially in rural areas. Education of mothers and their primary caregivers is essential to make them understand the importance of adequate fluid intake during puerperium.