During pregnancy, swelling of the feet and ankles is quite common and usually disappears after delivery. You may notice that it increases later in the day and in hot weather. Let’s look at the factors that cause swelling of the feet and ankles during pregnancy. When you are pregnant, your body produces and stores more fluid. In addition, your growing uterus puts pressure on the veins leading to the leg. This pressure increases even more in the last months of pregnancy. When the amount of blood returning to the heart decreases, fluid production in the body increases and the amount of fluid accumulated in the legs and feet increases. Standing or sitting for a long time also increases this condition.Here is what you need to do to prevent and reduce foot swelling during pregnancy;
– Try to sit by lifting your feet during the day.
– Lie on your side while sleeping or keep your legs slightly elevated by placing a pillow under your legs.
– Do not cross your legs while sitting.
– Do not stand or sit for a long time.
– Try to stay in a cool environment because the increase in temperature will increase your swelling.
– Take a walk or swim. The buoyancy of the water will reduce the pressure your baby puts on your buttocks.
– Avoid wearing tight clothes.
– Exercise regularly.
Although mild swelling of the legs and feet is normal, you should inform your doctor immediately if
– Too much or sudden swelling. This can be a sign of a serious condition called pre-eclampsia. Other symptoms of pre-eclampsia include extreme headache, blurred vision and dizziness.
– If you have swelling in only one leg, especially if you also have pain or tenderness in the back of your legs, this could be a sign of a blood clot.
