PREGNANCY AND HEALTHY LEG VEINS

Pregnancy in a woman's life is not only one of the most wonderful experiences she will have but also one of the most challenging. It is unique and miraculous. The changes in a woman's body are phenomenal and often under appreciated. Although there are other risk factors for the development of varicose veins, pregnancy is the most significant.

During pregnancy there is an increase in total body water of approximately 40-50%. The expansion of blood volume begins shortly after conception and there is significant salt retention. Swelling also occurs because fluid accumulates in the tissues of the lower leg secondary to the veins leaking. The changes cannot be completely avoided, but they can be decreased. Elevation of the legs, and use of elastic compression stockings can help. Low impact exercise- power walking, elliptical trainer, bicycling and especially swimming are excellent. These exercises activate the calf pump, which is responsible for pumping most of the blood from the legs. Swimming is antigravity and lessens the hydrostatic pressure in the legs.

Under normal circumstances, running is a great exercise, but during pregnancy, the pounding and increased pelvic pressure can increase the pressure within the veins and potentially damage the valves. Runners will benefit from wearing compression stockings while running. When lying down to rest or sleep it is helpful to elevate the legs and/or sleep on the left side to decrease the pressure of the uterus on the pelvic veins and vena cava. High heels should be avoided as much as possible because they inhibit the calf pump. An expectant mother should try to limit her weight gain during pregnancy to 20 - 30 pounds and avoid salt when possible.

A woman's veins enlarge during pregnancy. After delivery they decrease in size but don't go back to their former state. Vein damage caused by pregnancy can be more than a cosmetic problem. The vein walls are permanently stretched and frequently lead to varicose and/or spider veins. Leg discomfort can signal a more significant problem and should be evaluated.

TIPS FOR BETTER LEG HEALTH DURING PREGNANCY:

· Maintain healthy weight gain of no more than 20-30 lbs

· Eat a low fat diet

· Stay well hydrated

· Avoid standing for long periods of time. Remember; gravity causes the veins to distend, putting extra pressure on the veins.

· Avoid wearing high heels for a long period of time, especially when standing

· Continue exercising during pregnancy - preferably low impact

· When sitting elevate your legs. When possible elevate your legs above the level of your heart. This will give your legs a well-deserved rest by allowing gravity to assist in returning blood back to the heart.

· Avoid tight garments, especially in the groin area - this can decrease the venous circulation in your legs.

· Avoid crossing your legs. Crossing your legs adds extra circulatory pressure on vein walls.

· Don't sit for long periods of time, especially in "cramped" spaces. Long periods of inactivity, like car or plane trips, can cause blood to pool in the lower extremities. If you do travel, move your feet back and forth, and walk every 2 hours.

· Massage your legs at the end of the day especially if there is some swelling. Massaging your legs helps to increase your circulation.

· Wear graduated compression stockings. Compression stockings help the leg veins maintain their resiliency during the added pressures of pregnancy.

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