Why do feet swell when pregnant




















Yes, these are just about as sexy as they sound. These stockings gently squeeze your feet and legs to help keep fluid circulating. Try to avoid the knee-high compression stockings, as they may be too tight in the middle of your leg and actually make swelling worse. Going for even a 5- or minute walk a couple times a day can help improve your circulation, which helps reduce swelling.

While you may look adorable in your high heels, late pregnancy is a good time to give them a break. Wearing comfortable even orthotic , well-fitting shoes is key to reducing foot swelling, as well as to preventing hip and back problems that can arise as your center of gravity shifts and your weight increases. In addition to swelling, the ligaments in your body including your feet actually do stretch during pregnancy, so your feet may change size.

It may be annoying that one more thing is changing, or that some of your beloved shoes no longer fit, but this is an excellent excuse to go splurge on some new favorites. There are no studies proving that water pressure reduces swelling during pregnancy, but many women do find relief from swelling when they spend time in the pool. Try standing or swimming in a pool where the water depth is almost up to your neck. At the very least, you will feel lighter, cooler, and get a little exercise.

You may also find that your feet and legs are less swollen. Your partner may be looking for ways to be involved during the pregnancy process, and this is the perfect opportunity.

Massage helps circulate the fluids that tend to accumulate in your feet, which will in turn reduce swelling. So grab your water bottle, put your feet up, and let your partner gently massage your feet and legs. Adding some peppermint or lavender essential oil can make this even more relaxing.

These can not only help with swelling, but are great for helping relieve some of the stress that can accompany pregnancy. Sleeping on your left side when possible can improve blood flow, which reduces swelling of the feet. Lying on your left side takes the pressure of your uterus off of the inferior vena cava, which is the large blood vessel that returns blood to your heart.

Swollen feet are a very common side effect of pregnancy. Swelling is caused by increased fluid volume in your body, as well as decreased circulation. But a little swelling is definitely normal. Page last reviewed: 17 May Next review due: 17 May Read our cookies policy to find out more about our cookies and how we use them. Swollen ankles, feet and fingers in pregnancy. Swelling in your ankles, legs, feet and fingers is common during pregnancy. Causes of swelling As your womb grows, it can put pressure on the circulation to the lower part of your body.

When to get medical help Swelling that happens gradually can be uncomfortable, but it's not harmful to you or your baby. Always see your GP if you suddenly become swollen or have other symptoms. Urgent advice: Contact your GP immediately if you have:. Urgent advice: Always see your GP if you have:. During pregnancy, the extra fluid in the body and the pressure from the growing uterus can cause swelling or "edema" in the ankles and feet.

The swelling tends to get worse as a woman's due date nears, particularly near the end of the day and during hotter weather. Although sudden swelling in the face or hands may be a sign of a condition known as preeclampsia, mild swelling of the ankles and feet is usually no cause for concern. Call your health care provider if you notice swelling of your face, around your eyes, or more than mild swelling of the hands.

Hormonal changes also play a role. Foot and ankle swelling during pregnancy is common and usually goes away after delivery. In the meantime, it might help to:.

Some research suggests that foot massage and reflexology, which involves applying pressure to certain areas of the feet, hands and ears, might help decrease foot and ankle swelling during pregnancy.

Also, swelling doesn't mean cutting back on how much you drink. The Institute of Medicine recommends about 10 cups 2. Although mild foot and ankle swelling during pregnancy is normal, sudden swelling that is painful — especially if it's in one leg only — could be an indication of a blood clot deep vein thrombosis.

A sudden increase in swelling also might mean that your blood pressure is higher than normal. Both conditions require prompt evaluation and treatment. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Sign up for free, and stay up-to-date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID, plus expert advice on managing your health.

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