Pregnancy Symptoms 101 - Varicose Veins During Pregnancy

Varicose veins are often considered an evitable pregnancy symptom, and it is estimated that approximately 40% of pregnant mothers have to bear the aching enlarged spider veins creeping up their legs. Yet there are several ways in which we can fight ( and sometimes even eliminate) this pregnancy symptom, even if we are genetically predisposed to have varicose veins. Here's how...

Varicose veins and spider veins during pregnancy - What causes them?

If we have grown up watching our mothers and aunts massaging swollen feet and aching spidery veins, it is likely that we have the hereditary gene that causes varicose veins in our legs. In addition, jobs that require us to stand for long hours, uncomfortable footwear and pregnancy all increase our risk of getting varicose veins and once they appear on our legs and don't disappear a few months after giving birth, the chances are that we will need medical intervention to full eliminate the problem.

Though there is little we can do when it comes to our genes, there are several healthy habits we can adopt to prevent and minimize this problem. These tips become especially important once we get pregnant because pregnancy causes the release of hormones that relax the walls of our veins and make us more prone to varicose veins.

Varicose veins and spider veins during pregnancy - How do you prevent them?

Understanding what causes varicose veins is crucial in preventing this symptom. In very simple terms, varicose veins result when the veins in our legs 'pop out' due to the extra pressure causes by weakened veins and additional fluid in our system.

To learn more about what causes varicose veins click here

In order to prevent this symptom all we have to do is help our bodies by improving our circulation, resting as much as possible and prevent that extra fluid from depositing in our legs - here are some handy tips to prevent varicose veins.

Varicose veins and spider veins during pregnancy - Tips to prevent and reduce them

1. The major contributor to varicose veins is posture - Standing for long periods and sitting with crossed legs, contribute to tired and swollen feet and increase your chances of getting varicose veins. Even if your job requires that you sit or stand for a long time, you can always improve your circulation using a foot stool or moving around whenever possible.

In addition you can also try some simple leg and foot exercises such as stretching your legs in front of you, if you are sitting, or gently rotating one foot at a time, if you have to stand for long hours.

2. Another major contributor to varicose veins is footwear. High heels or stilettos constrict feet and hinder blood circulation. Opt for comfortable foot wear as early as possible during pregnancy. Change your high heels to comfortable court shoes with a 2 inch wedge to match business suits and smart office wear, or go for comfortable sneakers if you can wear them at work. During summer, avoid over heating your feet by wearing open footwear, and avoid sandals with thin straps that 'cut' in your feet.

3. Wear support tights - Support tights are a great way of easing the pressure on your legs and improving your circulation. Put them on as soon as you get out of bed in the morning, in order to prevent swollen legs and puffy feet.

4. Whenever possible put your feet up. A foot stool will help you prevent blood from pooling in your feet if you have to sit for a long period, but you can also try to rest your legs during your lunch break. If you have the opportunity, try to lie down on a couch and take an energizing nap when possible.

5. Avoid tight clothing, calf length support stockings and wear comfortable loose clothing whenever possible.

6. Eat healthy - Replace junk foods with healthy fruit such as cranberries, black berries and pomegranates that have natural properties that improve the strength of your veins.

7. The best ally to improve blood circulation is exercise. Keep consistently exercising throughout your pregnancy. Walking will not only increase your stamina but also naturally improve your circulation, since excercise will contract the muscels in your legs and help pump the blood back to your heart, so remember to keep active as much as possible in order to prevent those unsightly varicose veins!

Works cited
"Varicose veins during pregnancy" babycentre.com
"Varicose veins during pregnancy" ehealthmd.com