Swelling is common during pregnancy, especially in the legs, ankles, feet, and fingers. It usually gets worse towards the end of the day and as your pregnancy progresses. Swelling that develops over time is normally not hazardous to you or your baby, although it can be inconvenient. A sudden increase in swelling could be an indication of pre-eclampsia, which requires immediate medical attention.
Call your midwife, GP or labor ward immediately if you have:
Swelling in your face, hands, or feet, a severe headache, visual issues such as blurring or flashing lights in your eyes, intense pain directly below your ribcage, and vomiting accompanied by any of these symptoms. These could be signs of preeclampsia, a condition that if left untreated can lead to major consequences.
Normal pregnancy swelling
When you’re pregnant, your body holds more water than usual, causing swelling. Extra water tends to collect in the lowest regions of the body throughout the day, especially if the weather is hot or you have been standing a lot. Blood flow in your legs can be affected by the pressure of your developing womb. Fluid might build up in your legs, ankles, and feet as a result of this.
These things can help to reduce swelling
Try to: Avoid standing for long periods of time, wear comfortable shoes and socks – avoid tight straps or anything that might pinch your feet if they swell, try to rest with your feet up as much as possible, drink plenty of water – this helps your body get rid of excess water, and exercise – try to go for regular walks or do foot exercises during the day.
Foot exercises
Foot exercises can be done while sitting or standing. Bend and stretch your foot 30 times up and down, and rotate each foot in a circle 8 times one way and 8 times the other to promote blood circulation, minimize swelling in the ankles, and prevent cramping in the calf muscles.
Foot and ankle swelling during pregnancy is common and usually goes away after delivery. In the meantime, it might help to:
Maintain a safe distance between your feet and the ground. Standing for long periods of time should be avoided. Stretch your calf muscles by sitting with your feet up and twisting your ankles and lightly flexing your feet when you have the chance. Lifting your legs while lying down is even better. Sleeping on your left side is recommended. The major vein that takes blood from your lower body to your heart is relieved of strain as a result of this (inferior vena cava). If you prop your legs up with pillows, it might help. Compression stockings should be worn. During the day, your doctor may advise you to wear supportive tights or stockings. Every day, engage in some form of physical activity. Take walks, ride a stationary bike, or swim in a pool to get your heart rate up. You can either stand or stroll in the pool. Although research on using water pressure to treat swelling in the feet and ankles is limited, standing or walking in a pool appears to help compress tissues in the legs and may provide temporary relief from swelling during pregnancy. Wear loose clothing. Tight clothing can restrict blood flow. Don’t wear socks or stockings with tight bands on the ankles or calves.
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