Understanding Leg Swelling in Pregnancy: Causes and Remedies

Pregnancy is the most exciting and transformative journey with many joys and challenges. From discovering you're expecting to meeting your little one, every stage of pregnancy becomes memorable. Despite these exciting moments, you will come across minor roadblocks such as morning sickness, nausea, weight gain during pregnancy, or leg swelling.

Leg swelling during pregnancy is a common symptom experienced by many expecting mothers. During pregnancy, the body undergoes incredible changes to support the baby's growth. In such a period, it is quite common to find puffiness in your ankles, legs, and feet. 

Pregnant women experience a lot of changes in their body. If you are experiencing swollen feet during pregnancy - you are not alone. As the body produces extra blood to support the baby's growth in the womb, it may result in the swelling of certain body parts. Fluid retention in the legs is a common symptom during pregnancy. Circulation gets slowed during pregnancy, which causes swelling, especially in the legs, ankles, and feet.  Let's discuss in detail the common causes of swelling during pregnancy.

Increased Blood Volume and Fluid Retention

During pregnancy, your body will work hard and produce more blood volume to deliver oxygen and essential nutrients for your little one. It is quite common in expectant mothers for their blood volume to increase by 50%. This may lead to fluid retention and swelling in the legs, feet, and ankles. Gradual swelling is not harmful to you or your baby. However, sudden swelling can be a sign of pre-eclampsia or high blood pressure. Of course, it will be a little uncomfortable for you but it is completely normal and a sign of your body working properly.

Pressure from the Growing Uterus

We all know that the uterus expands during pregnancy to provide space for the growing baby. As the uterus expands, it puts pressure on the lower body, especially on large veins that carry blood from the legs back to the heart. This pressure slows down the blood flow from the legs to the heart, causing fluid retention which results in leg swelling.

Hormonal Changes

Hormonal changes are another reason for leg swelling during pregnancy. Progesterone hormone is produced at high levels during pregnancy. It relaxes the blood vessels, which results in the slowing down of blood flow. In such cases, fluid buildup occurs in the legs, especially as the pregnancy progresses. Also, the adrenal gland produces more hormones such as aldosterone and cortisol which leads to fluid retention in the body.

Many women during pregnancy experience swelling in pregnancy, and it is completely normal. In some cases, swelling indicates serious signs of pregnancy. Let's see what are the situations where swelling can be serious.

• Swelling doesn't go down to normal even if you rest throughout the day
• Face swelling during pregnancy
• Hands swelling during pregnancy
• The swelling seems more than you had before

Swelling needs to be considered seriously as it is more uncomfortable than we think. Most of the time, swelling goes away by taking proper rest.

However, if you are experiencing swelling for more than a day or sudden swelling appears, then it is a sign of pre-eclampsia. If the swelling of one leg is more than the other, then also it needs to be considered. 
 

Of course, mild leg swelling during pregnancy is perfectly normal, but sometimes it may need medical attention. When should swelling during pregnancy be a concern? Sudden swelling on the face, hands, and one leg more than the other could be a sign of something serious. Whether it might be pre-eclampsia or a blood clot, consider this as a sign and contact your doctor.

If you are experiencing other symptoms like dizziness, headache, chest pain, blurred vision along with leg swelling, then don't neglect the signs that are sent by your body.

However, not every pregnant woman may experience these signs as these are very rare cases. But, it is important to take them seriously in the early stages for the sake of your baby's safety.

Common Symptoms to Monitor

You need to keep an eye on some common symptoms when you are experiencing leg swelling during pregnancy. Gradual swelling in both legs when you stand for a long time is completely normal. You will feel your legs heavy and achy, also you will feel your shoes are a little bit tight. These kinds of symptoms will improve when you take proper rest and are signs that your body is adjusting to the changes during pregnancy. However, it is better to monitor them.

Urgent Symptoms Requiring Immediate Care

If you are experiencing a sudden, extreme swelling in your legs or you feel symptoms like chest pain, short breaths, and a rapid increase in swelling, it is crucial to seek medical attention. These may be the signs of blood clots, low blood flow, or similar conditions. In such cases, it is important to consult the doctor and take immediate action.
 

Although leg swelling is uncomfortable, there is no need for medical treatment. However, there are plenty of effective home remedies to treat leg swelling during pregnancy.

Making dietary changes, a good foot massage, and hydrating the body can help you deal with leg swelling.

If you are looking at how to reduce swollen feet during pregnancy, then these common remedies will help you:

• Drinking enough water and keeping your body hydrated
• Use lightweight compression socks
• Soak your feet in a cool Epsom salt bathtub for at least 15 minutes
• Keep your feet in the upward direction with a pillow under your legs
• Don't sit or stand in the same place for a long time
• Add magnesium-rich and potassium-rich foods and supplements to your diet
• Reduce salt intake and consult your obstetrician

Rest and Elevation Techniques

The easiest and simplest way to reduce leg swelling during pregnancy is to rest your feet and keep them in an upward direction, preferably above the heart level. Make it a habit during pregnancy whenever you sit especially when you have been standing for a long time.

Compression Stockings and Maternity Support Hose

Wearing compression stockings or maternity support hose can also reduce swelling and improve leg health during pregnancy. These garments apply pressure to the legs, feet, and abdomen to improve the blood flow back to the heart. Thus, it reduces fluid retention, improves blood flow, and prevents leg swelling. These can also reduce the risk of developing varicose veins.

Exercise and Stretching

Gentle exercises such as calf stretches, ankle pumps and torso rotations can also give you relief from leg swelling. Walking and pre-natal yoga can improve circulation and reduce swelling. Regular stretching of your legs prevents fluid buildup in the legs so you're less likely to experience leg swelling. Aiming for low-impact physical activities also helps in good blood circulation and prevents fluid retention.

Hydration and Nutrition

Staying hydrated helps to flush out the excess fluids from the body. Eating potassium-rich foods and reducing sodium intake can also lower fluid retention. This is why cooking your meals at home is suggested as you can control the amount of salt in the food.

We know that prevention is always better than cure. While leg swelling is not a serious problem it's a common discomfort for pregnant women. Keeping yourself active, wearing loose-fit clothes, consuming a healthy balanced diet, and staying hydrated helps to prevent swelling during pregnancy.

Usually, leg swelling will go away after delivering the baby. In some women, it may continue for a few days as the body takes time to eliminate the excess fluid retained in the legs. Staying hydrated, doing minimal physical movements, and elevating your legs above the heart level can improve the swelling and bring back your legs to normal. If leg swelling persists beyond a couple of weeks after delivery, please contact your doctor.

Leg swelling is a harmless symptom seen in pregnant women. This symptom indicates that your body is adjusting to the changes to support the baby's growth. However, it is still uncomfortable. Of course, mild swelling doesn't harm your baby but other symptoms like chest pain, dizziness, and swelling in only the leg can indicate serious issues. Taking proper precautions and seeking medical attention if needed will help you manage leg swelling and have a healthy pregnancy.