During pregnancy, the body produces approximately 50% more blood and body fluids to meet the needs of the developing baby. Swelling is a normal part of pregnancy that is caused by this additional blood and fluid. Normal swelling, which is also called edema, is experienced in the hands, face, legs, ankles, and feet.
This extra retention of fluid is needed to soften the body, which enables it to expand as the baby develops. Extra fluid also helps prepare the pelvic joints and tissues to open to allow the baby to be born. The extra fluids account for approximately 25% of the weight women gain during pregnancy.
What causes edema?
During pregnancy, the amount of fluids (mostly blood) in a womanæ¯ body nearly double to support the proper development of the baby and make the body more flexible expand with the baby's growth. Pregnant women usually experience swelling in the extremities, such as the feet, legs, hands, fingers and the face.
In addition to the large increase in body fluids, edema in the legs or feet in the third trimester may also be caused by the growing uterus pressing on the pelvic veins and thus slightly obstructing blood flow. Sitting or standing for a long period of time likewise puts pressure on the veins and may contribute to swelling.
What are the dangers
Edema is a normal condition of pregnancy. However, if you experience sudden and extreme swelling you may have early symptoms of preeclampsia, which is a serious condition of pregnancy-related high blood pressure. If you experience sudden swelling, headaches, a blurred vision, disorientation or dizziness, or severe abdominal pain, contact your health care practitioner immediately.
Edema is usually present symmetrically in the body. If you find that one of your feet or another area of the body is swelling more than the other, contact your health care provider right away as this may signal a problem with the blood vessels.
What can you do to treat swelling during pregnancy?
Swelling may be reduced by eating foods that are high in potassium, such as bananas, and by avoiding caffeine. Here are some other helpful hints to manage swelling during your pregnancy:
- Avoid standing for long periods
- Minimize outdoor time when it is hot
- Rest with your feet elevated
- Wear comfortable shoes, avoiding high heels if possible
- Wear supportive tights or stockings
- Avoid clothes that are tight around your wrists or ankles
- Rest or swim in a pool
- Use cold compresses on swollen areas
- Drink water, which helps flush the body and reduce water retention
- Minimize sodium (salt) intake and avoid adding additional salt to meals
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