Remedies For Swollen Feet During Pregnancy – You Are Mom

Having swollen feet during pregnancy is a common problem. Usually  it gets worse during the last trimester of pregnancy due to fluid buildup in the tissues. We will then see the reasons for swollen feet during pregnancy as well as the different ways to relieve them.

Edema during pregnancy: is it normal?

Suffering from swollen feet during pregnancy is a common ailment. The weight of the legs and feet and discomfort when walking are obvious signs of water retention. This inflammation in the lower limbs, also called edema, is more severe during the last months of pregnancy.

All of this happens with the weight of the baby. The uterus, which is larger at this point, puts pressure on the pelvic veins and vena cava,  slowing circulation.

“Swollen feet during pregnancy are a common discomfort due to weight gain and fluid retention typical of the later months of pregnancy”

What are the reasons for swollen feet during pregnancy?

Swollen feet during pregnancy are caused by an excessive buildup of fluid in the tissues due to changes in the properties of the blood. During these months, the amount of water in the body increases as a result of hormones,  which stimulates fluid retention. This excess is deposited in the ankles and feet, causing discomfort and a feeling of heaviness.

In addition,  there is increased blood flow which can cause blockage in some veins. The greater amount of water in the body produces resistance and pressure on the bloodstream.

Also, as the uterus increases in size, it puts pressure on the veins in the pelvis as well as on the vena cava (which carries blood from the extremities to the heart). Pressure from the uterus slows circulation  and makes it easier to retain fluid in the limbs.

Remedies to prevent edema

It is not uncommon for this to appear during pregnancy, even if it is a healthy woman who has never had edema.

In addition to the above causes, sudden weight gain during pregnancy or maintaining improper postures promotes its occurrence. It is advisable to avoid a sedentary lifestyle and sources of heat,  as this increases the risk of inflammation.

Recommendations to  avoid  swelling:

1. To drink a lot of water. It is advisable to take between 8 and 10 glasses per day. This eliminates toxins in the body and prevents fluid retention.
2. Take care of your diet. It is essential to eat enough fruits and vegetables and to cut down on processed foods as well as salt.
3. Get physical exercise. The  sedentary lifestyle  is the worst enemy for swollen feet during pregnancy. Therefore, moderate exercise that activates circulation is ideal. Walking, yoga or exercises in the water such as aquafitness are the most recommended.
4. Avoid staying too long in the same position. Sitting or standing for long hours is undesirable. Instead, it’s important to move, get up, and take a few steps. In addition, it is good to place your legs on a higher stool and never cross your feet and legs while sitting.

Other remedies:

1. Stretch the legs forward and bend the ankles upward  to stretch the muscles.
2. Use comfortable shoes  and special socks for pregnant women.
3. Try foot baths with cold or hot water. It is best to do this at the end of the day to have the effects of relaxation. Add hot water and salt to a basin. If you prefer cold water, add ice cubes and immerse your feet for a few minutes. This will calm the swelling and activate the circulation.
4. Relaxing massages. One tip to calm the feeling of swelling is to massage the area. Take care of the feet with moisturizers and circular, gentle massages that stimulate circulation.
5. Lie on your side. This will help relieve the pressure on the veins.

What signs should you pay attention to?

As we mentioned,  swelling of the feet, legs and ankles is usual during the last months of pregnancy. However, you need to know how normal this is and when to see a specialist.

If you notice any of the conditions described below, see your doctor immediately:

• In addition to the lower limbs, the face, hands and eye area are also swollen.
• Excessive or sudden swelling of the feet.
• If the swelling persists more than usual, even though the described precautions were taken.

• If one leg is more swollen than the other and pain occurs.

Finally, remember  that this is normal and transient discomfort. Therefore, you don’t have to worry too much. In principle, it will suffice to follow the advice offered.