Edema, also referred to as swelling in the feet, normally occurs in the latter part of pregnancy. Edema results from the extra blood accumulated during pregnancy. The enlarging uterus puts pressure on the blood vessels in the pelvis and legs causing circulation to slow down and blood to pool in the lower extremities. The total water fluid in the body remains the same as before pregnancy, however it becomes displaced. When feet are swollen, they can become purplish in color. Sometimes extra water is retained during pregnancy, adding to the swelling. About 25 percent of the weight you gain during pregnancy is due to excess fluids.If there is swelling in the face or hands, a doctor should be contacted immediately.If you experience sudden swelling of your hands or face, contact your doctor. This may be a sign of preeclampsia, or pregnancy-induced high blood pressure.
Drink lots of water. According to Parenttime.com, hydration is more important than ever during pregnancy, when extra fluids are needed to nourish your baby. By drinking more water than usual, you can avoid excess water retention, which adds to your swelling. BabyCenter.com recommends drinking 6 to 8 cups, or 46 to 64 fluid ounces, of water per day while you're pregnant.This keeps the kidneys functioning properly.
Remove rings or wristwatches. These pieces of jewelry may be useful or meaningful to you, but if you're experiencing swollen fingers or wrists, they may increase your discomfort. Parenttime.com recommends leaving them off for the duration of your pregnancy if you suffer from swelling, and also avoiding clothes that might be tight around your wrists.
Keep your legs elevated whenever possible. And don't cross your legs! Any time you get off your feet, pressure is reduced on the inferior vena cava and the iliac veins, so the blood can get back up and not pool in the extremities. Renal blood flow is improved as well.
Exercise. Parenttime.com reports that exercising will improve your circulation and help stabilize your weight, both of which can help with swelling. BabyCenter.com recommends activities such as walking or riding an exercise bike. Two especially useful forms of exercise are swimming or water aerobics. Soaking in water, particularly if the level is up to your shoulders, can temporarily relieve swelling.
Women who exercise have fewer symptoms of the common problems associated with pregnancy, including swelling. It seems to redistribute the retained fluids. Brisk walking is the best form of exercise for pregnancy.
Hold cold compresses on the swollen areas to soothe them. The American Pregnancy Association reports that this can provide relief from the discomfort of swelling. If it's summertime, you should also avoid spending too much time outside.
Eat to avoid swelling. Certain foods, such as salt, promote water retention, whether you are pregnant or not. Avoid foods high in sodium and instead seek out foods rich in potassium, which can help reduce swelling, according to Parenttime.com. Among these foods are bananas, dried fruits and nuts. You should also cut back on caffeine; most likely your doctor will advise this as a general pregnancy precaution. Caffeine also may cause dehydration, which can lead to fluid retention.
Wear support stockings. If swelling is a big problem for you support stockings, designed for pregnancy, can be helpful. Make sure you are fitted properly and wear them according to the directions.
See your care provider regularly. Make sure you check in every week until your baby is born. Swelling could precede other symptoms of preeclampsia.
Read more:
Your feet change during pregnancy
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