Preventing Edema During Pregnancy
June 23, 2009
A large number of women suffer from edema during pregnancy. Excess fluid retention in the body causes edema. It is characterized by swelling of the feet and ankle.
Edema might occur at any time during pregnancy, but it is more prominent during the last trimester of pregnancy. If you press the inflammation area with your thumb for about twenty seconds, and then release the pressure, you will see a hollow formed at the site of compression. This simple test will help to distinguish between edema and a simple swelling of the ankle.
Edema is not always dangerous during pregnancy. Mild edema can be cured through certain changes in your daily routine. However, if edema occurs along with high blood pressure during pregnancy, it increases the risk of development of pre-eclampsia.
Avoid standing for a long time
To prevent edema during pregnancy, women should not stand for a long time. This causes the body fluid to be directed towards the feet, causing inflammation. During pregnancy, women should rest with their feet raised.
Comfortable clothing
Avoid wearing tight fitted clothes and shoes during pregnancy.
Diuretics
Consuming diuretic drugs are not preferred during early pregnancy. Instead, certain foods, which are known for their diuretic property, can be included in the daily diet. Pregnant women could have onion, celery, garlic, parsley, peppermint, tea and coffee in moderate amounts to prevent edema. Fish oils are also believed to prevent fluid retention. Evening primrose and linoleic acid present in safflower oil can help prevent edema.
Pregnant women should limit salt intake. During pregnancy, salty and processed foods should be avoided.
Kidney function
Getting adequate rest during pregnancy helps the kidneys to flash out excess water. It is seen that the right kidney suffers, owing to its lower position, during pregnancy. Removing the baby’s load away from the right kidney enables it to work efficiently. Therefore, pregnant women should rest on the left side while sleeping or resting.
Drinking plenty of water also helps the kidneys to work properly.
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