Pregnancy is a miracle of life. It is also a pain in the– just about everywhere. Hormones change, body parts become more sensitive, and everything is rearranged to fit a human being inside of you. One common side effect is varicose veins in pregnancy. A mother’s blood volume increases to help support the life form growing inside of her.
Unfortunately, all that extra blood puts extra pressure on the blood vessels. This in turn can cause swollen, discolored veins, pretty much anywhere from the waist down. While generally harmless, they can be itchy and uncomfortable and should be monitored for signs of clots. There are a few things that you can do to help manage the discomfort from the comfort of your own home.
Effects on Varicose Veins Pregnancy Has
It’s definitely not recommended to treat various veins with any invasive methods while pregnant. You can, on the other hand, manage discomfort in simple ways at home. There is a good chance that once the pregnancy is over, the veins will reduce on their own. It’s best to leave major treatment options until you are sure they are sticking around. Until then, these methods will help relieve the discomfort:
- Compression stockings are designed to keep a firm, consistent pressure all along the veins in your legs. This increases blood flow in the legs and helps the blood get back up to the heart. Wear them from when you get up in the morning to when you go to bed. This avoids giving the blood a chance to pool in the legs but also gives your legs a breather at night. These stockings can be found in more pharmacies and are fairly cheap. If the pain is still an issue, ask your doctor about a prescription pair.
- Keep moving and exercise when you can
- If you sit for long hours of the day for a job or other activities, be sure to take regular breaks. Get up, stretch your legs, and get the circulation going. Avoid crossing your legs as that prevents blood flow. Several small breaks through the day can make all the difference.
- Ecourage blood flow with regular, gentle exercise. Good circulation helps combat varicose veins and eases discomfort if you already have them. Exercise during pregnancy doesn't just help with blood flow, but can also decrease fatigue, constipation, and back pain.
- Elevating your feet above heart level helps to keep blood from pooling too much in your legs. Take breaks throughout the day to prop up your feet and relax. You can also let gravity do its job while you sleep by propping a pillow under your legs in bed.
Natural Prevention for Varicose Veins During Pregnancy
To be perfectly honest, prevention is the best for of treatment for jsut about any condition. Here are a few things you can do to help prevent the formation of varicose veins.
- Clothing that restricts blood flow around the waist or legs can interfere with proper blood circulation. Opt for looser, more flowy clothes to allow for good circulation. Luckily, nowadays, maternity clothes are cute and fashionable even while being blood flow friendly. You aren’t doomed to look like a fifties housewife in a pregnancy smock just to avoid varicose veins.
- Doctors recommend minimal sleeping on your back during the last two trimesters. The extra weight puts too much pressure on the veins that send blood from your lower half to your heart. Sleeping on your left side encourages proper circulation without risking any major blood vessels. For those that struggle to side sleep, pregnancy pillows are a great way to make the position more comfortable
- Consider wearing flats while pregnant. Not only is it more comfortable, but they actually make your calves work more, encouraging blood flow.
- Not only is it good for your health and the baby’s, but vitamin C also helps keep veins elastic and healthy. Fill up on vitamin C-heavy foods like melon, mangos, bell peppers, kiwi, and more. Remember to never start a supplement while pregnant without conferring with your doctor first.
Bass Vein Center: Vein Specialist Near Me
At BASS Vein Center, we employ the best vein specialists and surgeons to ensure all your vein needs are met. Whether you are looking for a vascular surgeon or a phlebotomist, we are here to help. Visit our website to learn more about the causes of varicose veins during pregnancy. If you have questions or would like to schedule an appointment, contact us today.
