Pregnancy Guide – Week 18
What is happening to my legs???
Between now and the end of your pregnancy you are likely to end up with swollen ankles, swollen feet, and possibly even varicose veins at some point or another. There are several contributing factors at work. The first of which is the season in which you are pregnant. Swelling will be more likely in the summer months when your body’s ability to regulate temperature and maintain normal levels of water will be hindered. This is not to say that if you are due in the winter your in the clear, it just won’t be quite as likely. Another big factor if your activity level. If you have remained in one position for a long period of time – sitting or standing – you are going to be more prone to swelling in your ankles and/or feet. You might not be getting enough water and/or consuming too much salt. You want to make sure that you are drinking an extra glass of water everyday and try to stay away from salty food, as well as from adding salt to your meal. You can reduce swelling by sitting with your feet elevated. This allows gravity to aid in the process of redistributing the fluid that has collected in your lower extremities.
Varicose veins is another issue many pregnant woman deal with. The most important thing to keep in mind is that all though they are not the prettiest things ever, they are normally harmless. Although you should always point them out to your OB/GYN at your next visit just to be sure that they are in fact varicose veins. With all of the effects on your circulatory system, you are bound to have some minor issues, like disruption of the flow of your blood. Some woman will opt to wear support hose, especially if they will have to be on their feet a lot in the latter part of their pregnancy. It is also a great idea to invest in a good pair of supportive shoes. For many, the veins with become smaller and less noticeabe a few months after delivery. And while treatment is available, it is not considered wise to seek it out during pregnancy.
Word of the Week
Varicose veins – pl. n. a condition in which the superficial veins, esp of the legs, become tortuous, knotted, and swollen: caused by a defect in the venous valves or in the venous pump that normally moves the blood out of the legs when standing for long periods (www.dictionary.com)
