Pregnancy brings about many changes in a woman’s body. While most women are aware of and ready for a growing tummy, weight gain and changes in hair and skin, not many are aware of swelling. Swelling during pregnancy is quite common and nothing to worry about. If you are looking for safe ways to reduce such swellings during pregnancy, we have a list just for you!
_11zon.jpg)
First, let’s understand why women experience swelling during pregnancy.
Swelling is very normal in pregnancy. Most women experience swelling in their legs, feet and ankles, towards the end of the day, especially in the later part of pregnancy. The swelling can steadily increase as the pregnancy progresses. Though it may not be anything to worry about, it can be very uncomfortable and also impact the way you move around.
If you notice or experience the following in your pregnancy, you may want to consult your doctor before ignoring it as one of the many pregnancy symptoms:
● Sudden swelling of your face, hands or feet
● Sudden increase in swelling of body parts
● Severe headache
● Area below the ribs hurt badly
● Heartburn that won’t reduce or go away even after taking antacids or medications
● Vision becomes blurry or feels like a flashlight went on in your eyes
● Nausea or vomiting
These symptoms may seem normal in pregnancy. However, if they are new and sudden, you need to consult your doctor immediately. Pregnancy can cause slow and steady changes in the body. Sudden changes that affect your daily activities or cause discomfort should never be ignored.
Here are the top 10 effective ways to reduce swelling in pregnancy:
If you are spending too much time on your feet at home or due to the nature of your job, it could cause swelling in your ankles and feet. Standing in the same position can pool fluids in your legs, which leads to swollen ankles and feet. Take a small walk from time to time. The movement can help improve blood circulation and reduce swelling.
Keeping your legs higher than the hips can help reduce the swelling. When sitting down, prop your feet up on the coffee table or on a stool so that they are at the same level or higher than your hips. When in bed, you can place a pillow underneath your feet so that your legs are slanting upwards. This angle can help drain the fluids built up around your ankles and feet.
Pregnancy can be very draining. The body needs to make more blood during pregnancy to ensure the baby gets enough nutrition and oxygen. Drinking water can help one stay hydrated and ensure all bodily functions happen without any complications. Despite the need to visit the toilet multiple times a day, it is important to drink plenty of water during pregnancy. Dehydration can make your body store more water for emergencies, thus causing swelling.
Regular mild exercises like yoga or walking can help pump more blood into your feet and push out the excess fluid, thus reducing swelling. It is necessary to get approval from your doctor before you start any physical activities during pregnancy.
Compression socks that extend all the way up to your knees can be very helpful. The pressure exerted by the socks will slowly move the collected fluids back into the blood vessels and reduce swelling. You need not wear these socks at all times. Wearing them for a few minutes at a time, on and off during the day can also help. Opt for compression socks without a band at the top. If the pressure is going to build due to the tight top, the swelling can worsen.
Salt contains sodium which can increase water retention in the body, resulting in swelling. Apart from reducing salt in the food you cook at home, reduce the consumption of store-bought snacks and processed or canned foods.
High blood pressure can cause swelling of joints and other body parts. High blood pressure during pregnancy is quite common but should not be ignored. High blood pressure along with swelling can also indicate preeclampsia – a health complication in pregnancy that requires medical attention. Reduce your blood pressure by changing your lifestyle and diet.
Pregnancy can cause body temperature to rise for no reason. Heat flashes and sweating are very common in pregnancy. Keeping the body temperature under control can reduce swelling. Wearing loose clothing for better ventilation, soaking feet in a tub of cool water or just staying indoors away from the heat can help reduce swelling.
Pregnancy can cause your feet to swell or even grow a little. If your shoes or socks are too tight, they can affect the blood circulation and result in swelling. Switch to a bigger size and loose-fitting shoes so you can use them even as your pregnancy progresses. Ensure they are not too loose as they can trip you.
Standing or walking around inside a swimming pool can help compress the tissues in the legs. This can not only ease the pain but also reduce swelling in your feet. Ensure you are safe in the pool and avoid going too close to others as they may bump into you. Regular swimming or walking in the pool can help you stay fit and keep your joints supple.
The above-mentioned tips can help you effectively reduce swelling. However, there is no way to know if a pregnant woman will experience swelling or other changes in her body during pregnancy. The exact cause for swelling can also vary from woman to woman.
When the reason for swelling is unclear, it cannot be prevented. Being proactive and avoiding certain foods or activities during pregnancy can reduce the risk of swelling.
Swelling in pregnancy is very common. However, it does not mean you should just suffer through the swelling and discomfort. Making a few changes to your lifestyle and diet can have a big impact on the swelling and even help reduce the pain.
Reducing the number of hours you spend on your feet, putting your feet up at an elevated angle when you sit or sleep and wearing compression socks can help reduce the swelling in your feet during pregnancy.
Going for a walk during pregnancy can help with swollen feet. Swimming, pregnancy-safe yoga and mild exercises are safe during pregnancy unless your doctor has specifically asked you to not do them or take bed rest. Avoid strenuous exercise, jumping or standing on your feet for too long.
Yes, compression socks can help by gently squeezing your legs and pushing the fluids back into the blood vessels. It can also improve the blood flow in your legs, and send more oxygen, thus reducing the swelling and discomfort.
