Being able to even see your feet is hard enough while pregnant. But imagine looking down an seeing new veins popping up all over your legs. Although it’s probably the last thing you want to hear about, varicose veins are actually a common occurrence among pregnant women.
Here are a few tips for safely preventing and treating this pesky pregnancy problem!
What Is a Varicose Vein?
First things first, it’s important to know exactly what a varicose vein is. The good news is that they’re common and usually harmless, although they can be itchy and painful in some instances.
As your uterus puts pressure on the vena cava (which carries blood back to your heart from your leg area), the veins become enlarged. Although they commonly occur in the feet and legs, they can also occur in the genital and buttocks areas, especially during pregnancy. In fact, hemorrhoids are simply a type of varicose vein, although commonly a result of constipation and not genetics or hormonal changes.
How Do I Treat Them While Pregnant?
If you’re experiencing varicose veins, your first question is probably “how can I get prevent or rid of them?”
Prevention is tricky. More often than not, varicose veins are hereditary, so there’s not much you can do about that. In other situations, the circulatory changes that you’re going through during
pregnancy cannot be prevented and thus you don’t have many options. However, treatment options are out there, so you’re in luck!
Wear Proper Footwear
No high heels–that’s hard enough while pregnant! Wear flat shoes, or at the very least low heels, to work your calf muscles and get circulation moving. You can also wear maternity support hose. While they may not always be flattering, they do support the stimulation of blood flow, helping prevent varicose veins.
Cut Back on Sodium
Sodium intake can cause swelling of the veins, leading to more noticeable varicose veins. Reducing sodium will not only help alleviate these, but also be much more healthy for you and baby.
Sleep on Your Left Side
“But I like to sleep on my right side!” Yes, we know it’s tough, but sleeping on your left side can relieve pressure to the vena cava, helping limit the amount of varicose veins!
Move Those Legs!
Getting regular exercise (as permitted by your doctor), elevating your legs, and avoiding sitting or standing in the same position can help reduce varicose vein pain, and can prevent them from getting worse.
Talk to Vein Center Brinton Lake About Treatment
While you may not choose to opt for treatment during your pregnancy, after delivery can also be tough. But, you’re in luck! Vein Center Brinton Lake in Glen Mills, PA has a wide variety of treatment options that may be beneficial for you. There’s nothing better than being proactive, so contact us at (610) 579-3516 today to set up your appointment!
