Swollen Feet, Legs, and Hands During Pregnancy: Remedies

All throughout pregnancy fluid retention causes swelling, most commonly known as edema. This is a very natural condition of pregnancy. The growing uterus puts pressure on the blood vessels that carry fluid from the feet and ankles. Tight clothing, especially around the ankles, legs, and lower body, can increase fluid retention and swelling by slowing down circulation. Too little protein in the diet may cause the body to retain fluid.

Don't stay on your feet for extended periods of time. To reduce the swelling, sit with your legs and feet raised. If you can't sit with your feet up as often as you would like, walking around will stimulate circulation. Avoid standing still in one place if you can. Some form of mild to moderate physical activity will help to pump out excess fluid.

When you sit, try to elevate your feet and legs. Don't sit with your feet on the floor for extended periods. Don't cross your legs when you sit. This can further interfere with your already sluggis circulation.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Be sure to avoid tight pants, snug waistbands, garters, knee or ankle socks with tight bands, or anything else that can constrict your circulation.

A wedge-shaped pillow under the mattress at the foot of your bed will also enable you to rest with your feet elevated.

Although fluid retention during pregnancy was at one time thought to be related to excess salt intake, that view is no longer considered correct. Salt restriction during pregnancy does not cure edema and actually may cause harm. You may salt your food to taste, in moderation, of course!

You can't prevent reduce edema by avoiding fluids. In fact, the opposite is true. Drinking clear fluids such as water, will help your kidneys work well and pull the extra fluid out of your system.

Some swelling of the feet, ankles, and legs is to be expected and is probably not cause for concern unless the various measures suggested above are ineffective. Let your doctor know immediately, however, if your hands or face swell up. This may be a warning sign that your kidneys are not functioning as efficiently as they should be.