How to Get Relief From Varicose Veins and Spider Veins During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a pivotal phase in a woman’s life. A pregnant woman is pampered like a baby. The memories of the time stay with you forever. But it has several effects on your body and mood such as changes in hormones, morning sickness, dizziness, frequent urge to urinate, mood swings, and of course change in your overall appearance.

Very few people know that Varicose Veins and Spider Veins are two problems that a woman faces during her pregnancy. Before proceeding further on how to get relief from varicose veins and spider veins during pregnancy, let us have a brief understanding of these problems and how are they caused.

What are Varicose Veins During Pregnancy?

In pregnancy, the quantity of blood increases more than usual and the enlarged uterus puts pressure on the Vena Cava. Vena Cava is a combination of two large veins that take the blood from the body and supply the same to your heart. Extra pressure on the Vena Cava, twists your body veins, resulting in weakening and swelling in your legs. This changes the shape and color of your legs’ veins, usually to blue or dark purple, and are referred to as Varicose veins.

What are Spider Veins During Pregnancy?

Hormonal changes and increased pressure of the body bar the blood-supplying vessels to supply blood to the heart. As a result, the blood gets pumped back to your legs because of the weakened veins, and more pressure is felt on the legs. Legs have to fight against gravity because of the increased body weight. This leads to the formation of spider veins. Spider veins are the red or blue coloured lines that appear on your legs or face. These are generally in the form of a spider web; thus, they are called spider veins.

How to Get Relief from Varicose Veins and Spider Veins During Pregnancy?

The following measures can help you get relief from varicose veins and Spider veins during pregnancy:

1. Wear compression stockings

Compression stockings are a good buy to pamper your swollen legs. The stockings will help lessen leg pain and might also improve blood circulation in your expanded pregnant body. Improved blood circulation will put lesser pressure on the veins. As a result, veins will be able to supply blood to the heart more efficiently. The chances of varicose veins and spider veins will consequently be less. Before buying a pair of compression stockings, it is better to consult your obstetrician.

2. Switch sitting positions

If your work requires long sitting hours, try switching your sitting positions to give rest to your legs. You can also elevate your legs using a footrest or an empty cardboard box to improve your blood flow and comfort. If possible, try to avoid sitting for long hours. If you can’t avoid sitting for long hours, keep your legs moving while sitting to increase blood flow.

3. Do light exercises

Try doing light exercises or if you feel like, you can join prenatal or pregnancy classes as well. You can simply ask your gynecologist to guide you about the kind of exercises that may help relief varicose veins and spider veins.

4. Drink lots of water

To keep yourself hydrated and active during pregnancy, it is recommended to drink lots of water and increase your fluid intake. Staying hydrated will help you to improve the blood circulation and lessens the pressure on your veins.

5. Consult a doctor

If in case you feel pressure on your veins or encounter spider veins, it is better to consult a doctor and get advice from an expert. They can suggest you pregnancy-safe treatments and measures to soothe your legs.

Varicose veins and spider veins during pregnancy are mild conditions and are often less worrisome. It is advisable to get it treated by a physician to avoid increased stress levels during your pregnancy.

Good luck on the mom front! Stay Positive! Stay Happy!