You may experience puffy cankles, beginning in your second trimester. Normal swelling, which is called oedema, can also be found in the hands, ankles, legs, and feet during pregnancy. Oedema during pregnancy is common and normal, often considered a pregnancy side effect, especially near the end, but it typically disappears after you give birth. Thus, you just need to try some tips to relieve the discomfort. Also, there are some instances of swelling which you need to pay attention to as it may be a sign of serious health conditions, making it crucial to understand effective methods for managing pregnancy swollen feet and ankles.
The Causes
Your body produces additional blood and fluids to meet the needs of your growing fetus when you’re pregnant. According to some research, the total volume of body water can increase by up to 8 litres, with plasma volume increasing by up to 50%!
Extra fluid retention can nourish you and your baby, softening your body to allow the baby to develop in your uterus and prepare for labor. Additionally, the extra fluids that accumulate in your growing uterus may put pressure on your pelvic vein and vena cava. As a result, blood from your lower limbs is prevented from returning to your heart, leading to annoying swelling.
The Remedies
Tips to relieve normal swelling aim to improve blood circulation back to your heart and balance fluid and sodium levels in your body. Since sodium controls the amount of fluid in your body, moderating sodium intake is crucial. Here are some tips to consider:
- Elevate your feet with a pillow and perform exercises to raise them above your heart.
- Avoid standing for extended periods.
- Stay well-hydrated, especially in hot weather.
- Substitute regular salt with low-sodium alternatives and limit your consumption of salty foods.
- Opt for comfortable flat over heels.
- Sleep on your left side to facilitate the return of blood in the veins to the heart.
- Avoid tight socks; consider using compression socks to enhance blood circulation.
- Maintain regular physical activity to reduce swelling.
How to Detect Serious Pregnancy Swollen Feet?
Although most swelling is normal and harmless, be vigilant of persistent swelling in the face, hands, or around the eyes lasting more than a day. Sudden weight gain, high blood pressure, and protein in the urine occurring simultaneously could indicate an underlying condition, such as preeclampsia.
About 5% of pregnant moms may experience preeclampsia after week 20 of pregnancy. Be aware of the symptoms mentioned earlier and consult your OB-GYN doctor if you are unsure about abnormal swelling. Since you undergo blood pressure and urine checkups at each prenatal visit, discuss any concerns with your doctor.
High blood pressure during pregnancy, especially sudden onset, can be dangerous, potentially leading to coma in mothers and cerebral palsy in babies, among other serious conditions. Special attention must be paid to monitoring blood pressure levels. In severe cases of high blood pressure and preeclampsia, you may be advised to deliver the baby earlier, typically around week 35 or 36. After delivery, blood pressure usually returns to normal.
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