Pregnancy brings a host of changes—not all of them welcome. Among the less pleasant physical symptoms are foot and leg pain, cramps, and of course, the appearance of varicose veins.
These purplish-blueish spots, which can sometimes be painful, are a common complaint among those who are pregnant.
As vein specialists based in the Milwaukee, Wisconsin area, we often see pregnant patients seeking relief from this problem.
In this article, we’ll explore why varicose veins often occur during pregnancy, offer insights on managing and treating them, and tell you how you can get rid of them for good.
Why do varicose veins appear during pregnancy?
Varicose veins occur when your veins become enlarged, dilated, and overfilled with blood.
During pregnancy, the volume of blood in a woman’s body increases to support the growing fetus, putting additional pressure on the circulatory system.
Coupled with pregnancy hormones that relax the walls of blood vessels, this pressure can cause veins, particularly those in the legs, to become swollen and twisted.
Additionally, as the uterus grows, it puts pressure on the inferior vena cava—the large vein on the right side of the body—which can further worsen varicose veins.
What you can do to prevent or manage varicose veins before and during pregnancy
Navigating through the months of pregnancy involves adapting to many bodily changes—and sometimes, dealing with varicose veins.
Fortunately, there are a few steps you can take to help manage this condition and ease any discomfort it might cause.
Firstly, engaging in regular physical activity is important. Gentle exercises such as walking, swimming, or even stationary cycling can significantly improve your circulation, which is essential for maintaining healthy veins.
These low-impact activities are particularly beneficial because they strengthen your veins without overly stressing your body, which is already working hard during pregnancy.
Maintaining a healthy weight is another major aspect of managing varicose veins. Excess weight can increase the pressure on your veins, increasing the risk of swelling and pain. Eating a balanced diet and keeping active will help you manage your weight effectively throughout your pregnancy and can work to prevent varicose vein development.
For immediate relief, consider elevating your legs. Whenever you’re sitting or lying down, try to raise your legs above the level of your heart; you can use pillows or a footstool to help. This position helps blood flow, reducing the pressure on the veins in your legs and minimizing swelling.
Compression stockings are another beneficial tool in your management strategy. These specially-designed stockings apply gentle pressure to your legs, helping to maintain blood flow and decrease the enlarged veins’ pressure. Many healthcare providers recommend wearing compression stockings during the day to prevent the onset of discomfort and swelling.
As mentioned before, what you eat also greatly matters. A diet rich in fiber reduces the chances of constipation, which can strain your veins. Foods high in fiber include vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Additionally, including potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, and potatoes can help mitigate fluid retention, a common issue that can intensify varicose veins.
These lifestyle habits not only improve your comfort, but also contribute to your overall health and well-being during this important time.
Treatment options
For many women, varicose veins fade without lasting effects after pregnancy—but if they don’t, there are several treatment options available.
For the persistent heaviness in the legs, Injection Sclerotherapy is an excellent option. This method involves injecting a special medication directly into the affected veins. It’s generally minimally painful and requires only a few sessions to achieve noticeable results, making it a straightforward choice for alleviating the discomfort of varicose veins.
If you have smaller varicose veins contributing to the sensation of heaviness, Laser Sclerotherapy could be ideal. This treatment takes about 20 minutes per session and can significantly improve the appearance of veins, typically after two to three sessions. It’s particularly effective for targeting areas not fully responsive to injection sclerotherapy.
Combining the lifestyle habits we’ve listed above with appropriate medical treatments offers the best chance to permanently treat varicose veins. But if you’re considering treatment and aren’t sure which option is best for you, simply reach out to us for a consultation.
Conclusion
While varicose veins can be one of the more painful and frustrating aspects of pregnancy, there are effective ways to manage and treat this condition. With a few lifestyle changes or a potentially permanent treatment if needed, you can significantly alleviate symptoms and improve your quality of life during and after pregnancy.
If you need any help or consultations during this time, don’t hesitate to contact us! Our clinic in Milwaukee, Wisconsin is dedicated to assisting pregnant people manage the challenges of varicose veins with compassionate and effective care.