Ah, the joys of pregnancy – glowing skin, luscious hair and feet that resemble inflatable pool toys. Yup, swollen feet during pregnancy are a common occurrence that many expectant mothers have to deal with. Don't worry though – we've got you covered with our ultimate guide to dealing with those puffed-up trotters.
Why do pregnant women get swollen feet?
Swollen feet during pregnancy is usually down to water retention or edema. Our bodies produce up to 50% more blood and fluid volume when we're pregnant, which can cause excess fluid build-up in the tissues. Poor circulation can also be a contributing factor, as can gravity (thanks for nothing, Isaac Newton).
When does it occur?
Swelling generally tends to increase as your due date approaches but may vary from day-to-day depending on factors such as temperature and activity levels.
How To Prevent Swollen Feet?
Preventing swollen feet isn't always possible but there are things you can do to reduce the likelihood of it happening:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids helps flush out excess sodium which can contribute towards swelling.
- Regular Exercise: Incorporating some light exercise like walking or swimming into your daily routine helps improve circulation and reduces fluid accumulation.
- Keep Your Feet Elevated or Lie On Your Side While Sleeping:Ahh... elevating your legs above heart level while sitting or lying down reduces blood pooling in your lower limbs, minimizing swelling.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes:Avoid wearing high heels because they stress ankle joints; Instead opt-in for comfy shoes like sneakers since they provide arch support that lessens swelling.
Tips For Relieving Foot Swelling During Pregnancy
While prevention is better than cure quite often，you'll still find yourself needing relief from time-to-time:
Soak in Epsom salt
The magnesium sulfate found In Epsom salt is a great natural ingredient that helps reduce swelling of feet. To use, add 1-2 cups Epsom salt to warm water and soak your feet for up to 30 minutes.
Massage Your Feet:
Massaging those swollen ankles can work wonders if you do it correctly. Use long strokes beginning at your toes all the way up toward your knees. This will push accumulated fluids in the tissue upwards towards your heart thus reducing inflammation.
Wear Compression Socks Or Hose
Doctors often recommend wearing compression socks or stockings to prevent peripheral (leg/foot) edema；it applies gentle pressure which aids blood flow, midigating snakle looking legs among other benefits like limiting ankle-swelling etc..
When should I be concerned?
In most cases，swollen feet are not usually a cause for concern during pregnancy; however, there are times when you should definitely seek help from a healthcare professional：
- If one foot is noticeably more swollen than the other - this could signal an issue with circulation.
- If swelling occurs suddenly or severely – even after trying some remedies like elevating them or using Epsom salts,
- Swelling accompanied by redness and heat around any part of your leg: this could indicate thrombophlebitis (inflammation of vein walls due to blood clotting).
Conclusion
Swollen feet can really dampen what's supposed to be one of life's happiest moments; Luckily circumstances aren't serious since preventative measures combined with these tips aid alleviating symptoms。Use our guide above as steps on keeping omferatable,springy feet as possible during pregnancy!