Many women experience swelling of the extremities during pregnancy. In fact, nearly 75% of pregnant women will experience swelling, mainly in the feet and legs. While mostly a normal symptom of pregnancy, swelling can be uncomfortable and unpleasant. There are a few common causes connecting pregnancy and swollen feet, such as water retention and decreased blood flow in the vena cava. In most cases, swelling is normal, but if it extends to the face and hands or if the swelling is excessive or very painful, a medical professional should be consulted, as this could indicate a more serious problem.
One major connection between pregnancy and swollen feet is water retention, or edema. Edema refers to the extra collection of fluid in the body’s tissues during pregnancy to ensure proper nourishment of both mother and child. Mild swelling can be noticed in the feet and legs as well as other parts of the body, often at the end of the day and during the hot days of summer.
Another link between pregnancy and swollen feet involves the vena cava, a major vein that carries blood back from the lower extremities to the heart. As the uterus grows larger and begins to put pressure on the pelvic veins, the flow of blood through the vena cava is slowed, causing fluid to pool around the feet and ankles. This is often most noticeable during the third trimester of pregnancy, and swollen feet become a frequent occurrence for women whose babies are positioned directly on top of the pelvic veins.
There are a few scenarios when links between pregnancy and swollen feet can be indicative of serious problems. If there is swelling of the face and hands or excessive and rapid swelling of the feet and ankles, a blood pressure disorder called preeclampsia could be the culprit, and immediate medical attention is necessary. Additionally, if swelling occurs in only one foot or leg below the knee and is accompanied by pain or tenderness, it could mean that a blood clot has developed. Blood clots are very serious and can lead to death if not treated immediately by a doctor.
Aside from the few potentially dangerous situations, pregnancy and swollen feet go hand-in-hand, and swelling will subside after delivery. In the days following birth, a woman will likely experience increased urination and sweating as the excess fluid of pregnancy is released. During pregnancy, plenty of rest with the feet propped up can help reduce excess swelling. In the case of pressure on the vena cava, which runs along the right side of the body, lying down on one’s left side may help relieve swollen feet. Drinking at least eight to ten glasses of water each day might also help reduce swelling by flushing toxins out of the body.
