Swollen, itchy looking veins in the lower half of your body may appear during your pregnancy. This symptom is known as Varicose Veins.

The additional blood produced during pregnancy puts pressure on your veins, causing them to swell and bulge.  The good news is that varicose veins will not harm you or your baby. The only risk is clotting or inflaming of the veins, which is why you need to inform your practitioner if you feel anything out of the ordinary.

What can you do to relieve this discomfort? 

Keep your legs elevated when you can. When standing, flex your legs and stretch them often. It is not advised to cross the legs while sitting.  Taking walks will circulate your blood stream, keep your muscles intact, control your weight (over weight will put extra pressure on your legs). Consider wearing panty hose – this will counter the pressure going downward and the pressure from your growing abdomen. The most important thing to remember is not to strain yourself. Take it easy, you are pregnant. If someone can lift or carry things for you, take that benefit.

Comments (0)

Subscribe to this comment's feed