Swollen ankles in pregnancy are a common discomfort and many women ask us which graduated compression stockings can really help them. In this article we will see why your feet and ankles swell in pregnancy and what to do to support blood circulation.
We addressed the topic of swollen feet in the Health & Well-being blog where we focused on the main cause: the dreaded water retention. Among the most vulnerable people, in fact, we had already reported pregnant women. Today our attention goes to them.
Here are the questions we will answer:
- Why do your feet swell during pregnancy?
- What to do with swollen ankles in pregnancy?
- Which compression stockings to use?
- How to drain excess fluids in pregnancy?
- When to worry about swollen ankles in pregnancy?
Why do your feet swell during pregnancy?
Pregnancy is a magnificent event but it puts the body to the test! The change occurs first of all at the hormonal level: immediately the body starts the production of oestrogen and progesterone. Progesterone affects the circulatory system.
The physiological consequences that affect the blood and lymphatic circulatory system can occur from the first weeks of pregnancy, but are found by a greater number of women in the last quarter. Venous fatigue is caused by vasodilation (increased volume of blood vessels) and vascular permeability (ability of molecules to pass through blood vessels and reach tissues).
Swollen feet and swollen ankles in pregnancy are therefore caused by water retention. As we have already mentioned, retention occurs mainly in the last quarter and, usually, the feet and ankles are visibly swollen in the three weeks before delivery. From the seventh month of pregnancy the size and weight of the uterus can press the blood vessels that from the lower limbs transfer blood to the heart compromising their work. The return of venous flow is hindered by the accumulation of fluid in the legs, feet and ankles.
What to do with swollen ankles in pregnancy?
There are conditions that just can't be avoided like summer heat. In fact, when spring advances and the heat begins to affect circulation, your legs swell and you get tired easily. When temperatures rise it is better to avoid exposure to the sun, especially in the central hours of the day, and prefer shaded and ventilated areas.
It is not advisable to spend too much time standing. Standing for a long time, in fact, can fatigue the venous and lymphatic circulation, leading to feelings of tiredness, soreness and swelling. If for work or special occasions you are forced to stand for a long time, we recommend balancing the weight on both legs and choosing comfortable shoes.
The choice of shoes may seem obvious but it often happens to neglect shoes in pregnancy. It is better to prefer shoes made of breathable fabrics, with a sole that guarantees the elevation of the heel and without laces.
Devote time and attention to rest and posture. Resting the legs holding them high with respect to the rest of the body will guarantee the inflow of blood to the trunk (and therefore to the vital organs) avoiding swelling in the ankles and feet. Lying on the bed or couch, and holding pillows under your legs, will allow your blood system to carry more blood to your heart.
Alternate rest with physical movement, including foot and ankle exercises. For example, it can give relief to rotate the feet, or, extend the tips and then hammer them back towards the knees. These are simple exercises that stimulate circulation.
Go for a walk, yes, but don't overdo it. It is best to avoid subjecting the body to further stress and choose an exercise suitable for the period of pregnancy.
Which compression stockings to use?
To support blood circulation and to avoid swelling of feet and ankles, the use of graduated compression stockings is recommended. Graduated compression has no contraindications and, especially during events that lead the body to venous fatigue, such as pregnancy, it is recommended to wear them daily.
Graduated compression brings pressure that starts from the ankle with maximum force and gradually decreases towards the thigh. This gradual upward pressure stimulates the natural blood flow, facilitating its ascent towards the heart. Improving circulation can prevent the appearance of swelling in the legs and feet.
When choosing the most suitable compressive medical device for your condition, it is always advisable to seek medical advice.
We created the Maman alternative: maternity tights with different degrees of compression and also a leggings model, equipped with a maternity abdominal band. These models are recommended starting from the fourth/fifth month. The abdominal band of the maternity models in addition to supporting the growing belly is also a valid support for the back.
Stay-ups, knee-highs and half-leg socks remain excellent devices throughout the pregnancy.
How to Drain Excess Fluids in Pregnancy?
Water retention is a condition that cannot be completely prevented in pregnancy. Circulation, both blood and lymphatic, slows down and causes oedema, swollen feet and ankles. Among the medical indications you will receive will surely be to follow a balanced diet to maintain control of body weight and promote diuresis. Drinking a lot of water is always important.
The weight of the body in the last quarter reaches its maximum, as the uterus assumes important dimensions and the presence of fluids is felt on the legs. The weight is to be monitored so as not to weigh excessively on the legs, our pillars. The pressure of the weight on the lower limbs causes the slowing of circulation and the consequent swelling of the ankles and feet.
Among the remedies to drain fluids and to relieve swelling in pregnancy are:
- lymphatic drainage massages
- physical activity in water
- foods rich in water, vitamins and low in salt
To deflate feet and ankles in pregnancy there are many precautions but there are no definitive solutions. Swelling and water retention are closely related to the functioning of the venous system, so the best thing to do is to seek medical advice.
When to worry about swollen ankles in pregnancy?
Swollen ankles and tired legs are common symptoms at all, but it is good to pay attention to excessive swelling. Gestosis, also called preeclampsia, is a syndrome characterized by significant water retention. The other symptoms of gestosis are also very common among pregnant women so it is best to ask your doctor.
Symptoms of gestosis (preeclampsia) in addition to water retention are:
- Increased blood pressure
- Persistent headache
- Disturbed vision
- Gastrointestinal and abdominal pains and vomiting
The swelling related to water retention occurs in both limbs: it will be present in both feet and both ankles. When you swell only one ankle you are likely to be in the presence of an injury or inflammation of the joints. Also, in this case it is important to have medical advice.
