Managing Swollen Feet In Pregnancy
Swelling of extremities is a common problem during pregnancy. The body of a pregnant woman tends to retain excess water, leading to swollen ankles and feet.
Moreover, the growing womb exerts pressure on the pelvic veins and the vena cava or the large vein located on the right side of the body, which is associated with transportation of blood from the lower limbs to the heart.
The pressure exerted by the growing uterus on these blood vessels slows down upward movement of blood, from the lower limbs back to the heart. As a result, fluid from the blood vessels moves into the tissues of the feet.
Edema or water retention in the extremities is usually a harmless condition. The swelling subsides naturally after delivery. The swelling usually increases at the end of the day and worsens in hot weather conditions. Swelling largely occurs during the third trimester of pregnancy.
Treating swollen feet in pregnancy
Edema during pregnancy should not be treated with diuretics. With simple adjustments in your lifestyle, you can easily overcome this problem. Prolonged standing or sitting should be avoided during pregnancy.
Remaining stationary for a long time, slows down blood circulation, which increases the risk of swelling. Do not sit with your legs crossed. Try to elevate your legs while sitting.
Rest your feet on a small stool or a pile of books whiles sitting, and place them on one or two pillows while lying. You can prevent swelling of feet and ankles by occasionally rotating the ankles to ease blood circulation.
To relieve the pressure on the pelvic veins, lie on your sides while sleeping. Lying on the left side is especially recommended to reduce pressure on the vena cava, located on the right side of the body.
Do not wear tight fitted shoes, socks and stockings. Clothes with tight bands around the ankles and calves should be avoided. Waist-high maternity stockings are usually safe for pregnant women.
Moderate exercises, as recommended by your physician, could improve blood circulation in your lower limbs. Swelling could be temporarily reduced by soaking in a large tub of cool water for several minutes.
