Pregnancy varicose veins
Varicose veins during pregnancy are swollen veins just below the skin and most common in the legs or anus.
© Thinkstock
Varicose veins during pregnancy are swollen veins just below the skin. Although most common in the legs or anus, they can also develop in the vulva.
The weight of your developing baby and growing uterus puts extra pressure on your veins. Also pregnancy hormones can relax the vein walls, making them more likely to expand to form varicose veins. See Piles.
Don't stand for too long. Put your feet up. Wear pregnancy support tights. Gentle massage may help to prevent varicose veins, but do not massage the area if you develop them. Avoid leg-waxing treatments that may cause inflammation.
Posted 04.05.2011
See more in the dossier: Pregnancy complaints guide
- Pregnancy backache
- Pregnancy carpal tunnel syndrome
- Pregnancy constipation
- Pregnancy cramps
- Pregnancy diarrhoea
- Pregnancy faintness
- Pregnancy heartburn
- Pregnancy high blood pressure
- Pregnancy insomnia
- Pregnancy mood swings
- Pregnancy morning sickness
- Pregnancy piles
- Pregnancy rib pain
- Pregnancy tender breasts
- Pregnancy thrush
- Pregnancy water retention
Get more on this subject…
