If you’re pregnant, you know your body will be changing and adapting. However, there might be a few changes that you weren’t quite expecting while you’re expecting. One of those unexpected changes is varicose veins. But don’t worry, experiencing varicose veins while you’re pregnant is common even if it can be painful and annoying. Here are some ways to find relief from those varicose veins while you’re pregnant.
Rest Your Legs
Standing for long periods of time have been known to contribute to varicose veins, this is especially true when you’re pregnant. If you have to stand for long periods of time for work or just throughout your day, try to take more breaks where you can elevate your legs to let them rest.
Avoid High Heels
Going along with resting your legs, give your feet a break too. Now, more than ever it’s time to put those high heels back on the closet shelf. Wearing high heels puts extra pressure on your legs and feet, which isn’t great for your veins. Swap out that fashionable footwear for something more comfortable, like supportive flats or tennis shoes.
Compression Hosiery
You may be thinking about picking up some compression hosiery already but we highly recommend it if you’re pregnant. Many types of pregnancy hosiery have built-in compression in them that helps varicose veins without being too constrictive on your circulation. If you need suggestions, talk to your OB-GYN or call our office, we’d be happy to help.
Exercise
As always, exercise can only help your health, and not just your physical health but also your emotional well-being. Talk to your OB-GYN about what exercise or activities might be best for you, but walking and biking are usually great low-impact options that help improve your blood circulation while easing those varicose vein issues.
Schedule A Post-pregnancy Appointment
Unfortunately, there aren’t many treatment options we can offer you while you’re pregnant. But we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us after your delivery. Depending on your health and whether or not you’re breastfeeding, we can come up with a treatment plan for you. Typical varicose vein treatments include sclerotherapy, laser ablation, and radiofrequency ablation.
If you have any questions about varicose veins during pregnancy or in general, contact Southwest Vein and Leg office today at 817.235.0769.