Feet Swelling During Pregnancy

Swelling is called edema in medical terms. Swollen during pregnancy is faced by a number of women all around the world. This condition can be seen through all the trimesters. However, it is more observed in the fifth month. The swelling often increases in the third trimester.

Causes of Hands and Feet Swelling During Pregnancy

During pregnancy the body produces almost 50% more blood and body fluid, so that it can meet the requirements of the fetus developing in the body. The swelling is caused by the additional blood and fluid produced by the body. The fluid that is generated, is retained by the body, which is required to soften the body, which helps when the body expand as the fetus grows. This fluid is also required for the pelvic joints and tissues. It helps the pelvic joints and tissues to open up during childbirth. Of the total weight gain during pregnancy, 25% is due to this fluid.

Some of the factors which affect swelling are:

• Standing for a long period of time at a stretch, is one of the most common causes which causes swelling in feet during pregnancy.
• Inadequate consumption of potassium too, can lead to swelling.
• High intake of sodium in the diet, causes water retention, which in turn leads to edema.
• High level of caffeine consumption also leads to swelling.
• Heat in summers is also one of the reason for the swelling of the feet during pregnancy.
• Long working hours are also one of the contributing factors.

How to Reduce Swelling in Feet During Pregnancy?

There are a lot of home remedies to cure various ailments, some of which also help in reducing feet swelling. At the same time, there are a few guidelines that need to be followed as a part of prenatal care, which will help your cause. Here are some of the remedies...

• The first and foremost change is to avoid standing for a long period of time. Remember it is your feet which is bearing your weight and also the weight of the fetus, which is growing within you. Therefore the feet also need to rest.
• When you sleep or when you are resting, rest your legs on an incline, in the form of a pillow, to prevent the flow of the fluid to your feet. If it is possible, lie down with your legs resting on an elevation during the afternoon.
• If you sit and work the whole day, make use of a footrest. The footrest will help in reducing the swelling of the feet.
• It is not advisable to use high heels when you are pregnant. The high heels can add to your woes of swollen feet.
• You should increase water consumption. Drinking water is known as one of the best cures for water retention besides aiding in the detoxification of the body.
• During the summer season avoid spending time outdoors.
• Do not wear clothes which are tight at the ankles or the wrists.
• Use elastic hose, which will lend support to your legs. It is not advisable to use nylon hose.
• If you really want to exercise, you can make use of the swimming pool. You can go swimming or you can simply rest in the pool.
• You can make use of a cold compress on your swollen feet during pregnancy.
• The consumption of sodium during the pregnancy months should be at its minimum. Sodium leads to water retention, hence it is advisable not to add additional salt to your meals.
• Avoid the consumption of junk food through all the months of pregnancy. Junk food usually contains a high amount of sodium.
• You can ask your partner to give you a foot massage. The massage will help in increasing blood circulation to your feet and help in reducing feet swelling.

If you notice swelling on only one foot, it can be due to a blood clot. In such a case do not waste time and have yourself checked by your doctor. Usually feet swelling, is the most common pregnancy symptoms, so there is nothing to be worried about, however, if you notice sudden swelling on your hands and feet, it is advisable to have yourself thoroughly examined by the obstetrician and gynecologist.