It is common for pregnant women to experience several changes in their body. You may encounter several discomforts and swelling as part of your pregnancy journey. Edema is one such condition where your ankles and feet swell during pregnancy. Several reasons may result in swelling in feet during pregnancy. The main reason for edema is excessive fluid build-up in the feet. Hormones may also be responsible for fluid retention in your legs. It is a matter of concern and you should consult your doctor immediately when you notice swelling in your feet during pregnancy. This article throws light on the treatments and remedies for edema in pregnancy.
Edema is swelling in the legs or arms due to fluid retention in the body tissues. It is said that pregnant women’s bodies tend to hold more water. Pregnant women usually notice swelling in the arms, legs, fingers, etc. for various reasons. The swelling is noticeable in the night and subsides in the morning. Pregnant women in their second and third trimesters usually experience edema. Pregnancy swelling usually goes off within a few weeks after delivery. Swelling during pregnancy can be a sign of serious complications.
If you notice or experience the following, you will likely suffer from edema or swollen feet during pregnancy.
● You may notice swelling in the ankle, feet and arms. The swelling may worsen towards the end of the day.
● The swollen area looks shiny and stretchy
● You may experience mild pain or discomfort in the swollen area
● You may find it difficult to walk due to swollen feet
● You may also notice that your shoes do not fit due to swelling of the feet.
The following reasons may result in swelling or edema in pregnancy.
● Fluid Retention in Body Tissues: It is natural for the body to retain fluids to nurture the baby in the womb. It is said that the fluid content in the body may increase up to 6.5 litres, which is needed for the placenta, amniotic fluid, and fetus. The extra fluid gets collected in the body tissues, resulting in swelling in the leg, ankles, feet, or arms.
● Hormonal Changes: During pregnancy, the adrenal glands get stimulated by releasing more hormones that retain your body fluids.
● Change in Blood Flow: The increase in blood flow during pregnancy can also lead to swelling of legs and feet.
● Pressure Due To Growing Baby: The baby in the womb grows as your pregnancy proceeds, putting extra pressure on the uterus and inferior vena cava, reducing blood flow to the heart. This affects the blood flow in the legs, leading to swelling.
● Improper Diet: If your intake of simple sugar is high, it may lead to fluid retention and swelling. Caffeine intake also leads to fluid retention.
If you notice gradual swelling of your feet or ankles, it is completely normal. This does not harm your baby or lead to any pregnancy complications. Swelling in the third trimester is completely normal during pregnancy. You may notice evident swelling symptoms at the end of the day or during hot temperatures that subside the next morning.
Swelling during pregnancy may be a sign of a serious complication. If you notice a sudden increase in swelling in the feet or ankles, it may be a sign of pre-eclampsia or another serious medical condition. It is a must to consult your doctor immediately when the swelling worsens. If you notice the following symptoms along with swelling, then you must consult your doctor without fail.
● Severe headaches
● Trouble breathing
● Pain in legs
● Blisters on legs or feet
Your doctor may ask about your medical history to diagnose the cause of the swelling.
● Treat the cause: It is important to identify the cause of the swelling. Treating the underlying condition can help reduce swelling during pregnancy
● Keep Your Legs Elevated: Your doctor may insist that you keep your legs elevated to balance blood flow and reduce swelling.
● Do Not Stand For Long Hours: You may be advised not to stand for long hours when you suffer from swelling during pregnancy.
● Wear Supportive Shoes: Pregnant women with swelling feet can wear comfortable and supportive shoes to reduce swelling
● Limit Your Salt Intake: Reducing the intake of salty food can help in treating edema during pregnancy.
● Sleep On Your Left Side: Your sleeping position matters during pregnancy. Sleeping on your left side reduces the pressure of your uterus on the vena cava, regulating the blood flow.
● Use Compression Socks: You can wear compression socks as they reduce swelling and avoid blood clots in the feet.
● Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight during pregnancy can worsen edema. So, maintain an ideal weight during pregnancy.
Here are some effective pregnancy edema remedies that help pregnant women reduce swelling.
● Massage your legs: Gentle massage can help soothe your feet or ease the symptoms of edema during pregnancy.
● Yoga Poses Help: Lie on your back and raise your legs against a wall. This helps regulate blood flow, reducing swelling in the legs.
● Try Simple Exercises: When you notice swelling in your feet, it is important to move around. Practice simple exercises at home to improve the blood flow around your legs and feet.
● Stay Hydrated: Increase your fluid intake when you suffer from swelling due to pregnancy.
Various changes and discomforts may occur in your body during pregnancy, including foot swelling. Various reasons may result in edema during pregnancy. Never ignore swelling feet, as it may lead to blood clots and varicose veins. Immediately consult your healthcare provider and look for remedies to treat the same.
Edema is a swelling commonly experienced by pregnant women during their second or third trimester. It mainly occurs during pregnancy due to fluid build-up in the tissues, especially in the legs, causing swelling in the feet. Hormonal changes during pregnancy are also responsible for edema.
Yes, eating a healthy and nutritious diet helps reduce swelling in pregnant women. Include foods rich in protein and potassium, and restrict salt intake.
Yes, wearing compression stockings during pregnancy helps reduce swelling. It also helps avoid blood clots and reduces pain caused by swelling.
