The entire pregnancy impacts the women’s body in different ways. The unusual problems come as a surprise for first-time mothers. They may have anticipated the growth of belly but not the feet. One of the body transformations during pregnancy is foot swelling caused by reasons ranging from long working hours at the office, less activity, uncomfortable clothing, etc. Sometimes it happens even if the mother-to-be takes care of all proven strategies to avoid feet and body swelling. To resolve the foot swelling issue, pregnant mothers should study and resolve the causes. For this purpose, it is important to educate oneself about the possible issues and solutions to foot swelling.
First of all, pregnant women need to realize that getting swollen feet is normal, especially in the later stages of pregnancy i.e. third trimester. Due to the growing fetus, the uterus expansion occurs resulting in compression on the lower body leading its way to the feet and ankles. Body produces fluid and extra blood that retains in lower body as blood circulation slows down. Though swelling does not affect you or your baby but it is definitely an uncomfortable experience and sometimes you need to track it as it indicates some hidden medical issue. This article compiles the causes of foot swelling through first-hand research from pregnant women along with the solutions that helped them in resolving the problem.
When to Consult the Doctor or Midwife
Feet swelling can be as dangerous as immediately contacting the midwife or doctor, or can be simpler as walking every hour for two minutes, and boom the swelling is gone. But, if the swelling has occurred and is visible in hands and face, do not ignore it as it indicates high blood pressure or preeclampsia. Doctors disclose that it is alarming if the leg or feet swelling occurs along with other symptoms such as chest ache, unbearable pain in the legs, or blood clot visible in any part of the body. If you face the symptoms of breath shortness or if one foot is more swollen than other, you should immediately report it to your doctor or midwife.
The patients diagnosed with preeclampsia need monitoring as it can be life threatening and only ends with the baby delivery. Thus, get the treatment from reliable medical professionals.
Normal Feet Swelling in Pregnancy
A normal human pregnant body holds a lot of water which results in swelling of different body parts. When women don’t get rest, the water gets stored in the lower body in the feet and ankles. Even if the reasons are oblivious (such as standing for long hours due to a job or not taking enough rest), the pressure on the feet can elevate the discomfort in the last trimester. The lower body parts including the feet retain water and affect the blood flow resulting in swelling as the fluid increases. Lesser water intake can impact the blood flow in the lower body thus optimal fluids level in the body are beneficial in foot swelling.
Some people tend to invest in good quality footwear that fits their new foot size, which should be comfortable and relaxing. Main task for women is to stop wearing high heels and uncomfortable shoes. Instead using crocs or slip-ons can help in feeling comfort in swollen feet and ankles.
How to Prevent Feet Swelling
Following tips and tricks from pregnant women can help to prevent and reduce foot swelling:
- Get a footrest as it is a pregnant women best friend in foot swelling problems.
- Avoid tight socks and clothing for lower body as it can increase the pain by blockage of blood circulation. Instead wearing the compression socks is preferable advice by the gynaecologists.
- Avoid long hours sitting or standing or better take leave from the office for the sake of convenient pregnancy
- Simple exercises not only resolve foot swelling but also help in uplifting your mood. But it comprises of simple walk and lifting the feet while resting. Hard and difficult exercises can escalate the issue that you should avoid at any cost.
- Increase water and fluids intake. Fresh juices is a healthy option as well.
- Stay indoors and keep the body cool through light clothes in summer season
Your pregnancy requires rest and relaxation before the baby arrives with a lot of responsibilities. You need to enjoy this time by getting new shoes, loose clothes and compression socks that are only used in pregnancy time. Check and observe the foot swelling if it is getting complicated and the doctor’s visit is inevitable. Otherwise, it is a common and normal pregnancy symptom that is visible in the last months of pregnancy. It is harmless and you need to tackle it with rest, exercise, and taking comfortable positions. Get the emergency contact number of your midwife or doctor who you can immediately contact for any queries.
