A campaign has been launched to raise awareness about the risk of pregnancy-related blood clots, which is one of the leading causes of maternal death in the developed world.

The 'One in 1,000' campaign refers to the number of women who are likely to experience a potentially dangerous blood clot during pregnancy, delivery or just after birth.

These clots, termed venous thromboembolism (DVTs), can include deep vein clots (DVT) or clots on the lung (pulmonary embolism).

The campaign is designed to educate healthcare workers in the maternity field to educate women about the risk of these clots and is advocating for the setting up of VTE prevention protocols at hospitals and in health systems in general.

Meanwhile, new clinical practice guidelines for managing blood closts in pregnancy are now being implemented by the HSE.

According to Prof Michael Turner, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at UCD, these guidelines will be implemented in all maternity units nationally.

The 'One in 1,000' campaign is sponsored by global healthcare products company Coviden.