Swollen Feet During Pregnancy

Swollen feet in pregnancy is one of the most common problems at this stage of women’s lives. Many feel uncomfortable walking and wearing certain types of shoes.

Fluid retention is the main cause of swelling that occurs in pregnancy. Some simple care, however, can ease the discomfort and even nip it in the bud. Want to know more? Let’s understand what causes retention and how to improve symptoms.

Swollen feet in pregnancy: is it normal?

Gynecologist and obstetrician Ana Carolina Lucio Pereira explains that it is normal for feet to swell during pregnancy, especially at the end of pregnancy, close to childbirth. “Water retention is more common in pregnant women due to fluid-retaining hormones and difficulty in venous return, which can favor the cessation of circulation and leakage of fluid into the extravascular environment, causing edema”, she teaches.

This is because, as the baby grows, it puts pressure on the vena cava, which receives blood from the legs. With the pressure, blood builds up and water flows down to the feet and ankles.

Swollen feet during pregnancy is normal. However, if you suddenly swell up in your feet, hands, or face, see your doctor right away, as it could be a sign of preeclampsia.

10 foolproof tips to relieve foot swelling

If you are suffering from this disease, don’t worry. A few simple strategies can ease foot swelling. Ana Carolina mentions that it is important, when lying down, to position oneself laterally to the left side, elevate the lower limbs, perform mechanical drainage or even wear compression stockings at this stage.

It is also advisable not to stand for a long time, but it is important to move, including practicing some physical activity, such as walking or water aerobics, “to exercise calf muscle strength against extravasation”, according to Ana Carolina.

A healthy and balanced diet is also an excellent ally at this stage: “make use of fruits, vegetables and a natural diet rich in fiber, drink lots of water and avoid processed foods”, says Ana. Check out some tips and recipes to alleviate foot swelling:

1. Drink water: drink 2 to 3 liters of water a day so that the body stays hydrated and reduces fluid retention.
2. Lie on the left side: this position facilitates the return to the vena cava towards the heart, improving blood circulation.
3. Elevate lower limbs: when lying down or sitting, elevate legs and feet to improve circulation.
4. Wear compression stockings: as per the obstetrician’s guidance, compression stockings can help a lot in improving circulation and reducing swelling.
5. Not standing: Avoid standing for a long time, as this worsens fluid retention and swelling.
6. Practice physical exercises: take walks, water aerobics or other exercise indicated by your obstetrician to help with health and well-being.
7. Eat diuretic foods: some foods help fight fluid retention in the body, such as watermelon, cucumber and celery, for example.
8. Avoid salt: avoid the consumption of salt, fried foods and processed foods, which increase body swelling.
9. Thermal shock: taking a bath of contrasts helps to deflate the feet and ankles. Place a basin with hot water and another with cold water and alternate feet for a few minutes in each one.
10. High heels: Don’t wear shoes with high heels or tight heels, which contribute to swelling.

Unfortunately, the swelling doesn’t always go away with the baby’s birth. It can last up to ten days after giving birth, but soon your body will return to normal.

Practicing physical activity and eating healthy during pregnancy is essential for the body to resume its healthy functioning.