Pregnancy and Varicose Veins: How can I mantain healthy and lighter legs during pregnancy?
Varicose Veins and maternity go hand in hand.
Women who are pregnant are at a significantly higher risk for developing varicose and spider veins. Weakened veins don’t pump blood back to the heart adequately, which causes the blood to flow backwards within the veins of the leg, creating pressure and causing the veins in the leg to become swollen and distended. Varicose and spider veins can develop as a result.
It is important to take care of yourself during this special time, but the best of diets, adequate rest, and exercise cannot prevent you from developing this very common problem among pregnant women. Your body’s natural changes during pregnancy causes an increased risk for varicose and spider veins to develop as veins are weakened due to the following:
• Increased overall blood supply in the body due to womb puts excess pressure on the veins, which in turn can weaken veins • Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause vein walls to relax and stretch out • Weight increases during pregnancy places excess pressure on the veins of the legs
In addition to maternity induced spider veins and varicose veins, you will have tired, achy and swollen legs and feet. Compression hosiery can provide IMMEDIATE RELIEF.
Why? If blood isn’t pumped efficiently from the feet back to the heart, blood will pool and collect in the ankle area causing excess pressure on the veins. This pressure will cause legs to ache and the ankles to swell.
What else can I do to keep legs healthy and minimize varicose and spider veins?
Graduated compression hosiery is the first line of defense against spider veins and varicose veins.
Other things that you can do to prevent varicose and spider veins and keep your legs light and energized:
• Exercise daily. Just a relaxing walk can boost blood circulation • Elevate your feet and legs whenever possible. When your sitting down, use a stool to rest your legs. Keep your feet elevated on a pillow when you're lying down • Sleep on your left side. The largest vein in your body is the vena cava and carries the largest amount of blood through your body. Because it is located on the right side of your body, lying on your left side will decrease added pressure on the vein • Rest frequently. The less you exert your body, the less pressure you will put on your veins. • Don't cross your legs or ankles when sitting • Don't sit or stand for long periods without taking breaks to move around. • Try to keep within the recommended weight range for your stage of pregnancy