Pregnancy water retention
Water retention during pregnancy happens when there's more fluid than usual in your body tissues, causing swelling (oedema).
© Thinkstock
Water retention during pregnancy happens when there's more fluid than usual in your body tissues. This causes swelling (oedema), especially of the feet, face, and hands. Your rings may become tight.
Standing all day, especially in hot weather, can cause fluid to pool in the ankles. High blood pressure, which often happens in pregnancy, can force fluid from the bloodstream into the tissues, causing oedema. Pregnancy hormones can cause retention of sodium by the kidneys, which in turn causes the body to retain fluid.
Don't stand for long periods. Put your feet up when you can. Avoid salty foods. Your doctor will check your hands, face, and ankles for any swelling at each antenatal visit. Diuretics are not recommended during pregnancy.
Posted 04.05.2011
- 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 varicose veins
Get more on this subject…
