Teen Pregnancy Forum

Here stacey-hope it helps!

Why are my ankles and toes so swollen?
What you're experiencing is called edema, which is what medical folks call it when fluid collects in your tissue. It's normal to have a certain about of this swelling during pregnancy due to a tendency to retain excess water while you're pregnant and to certain changes in your blood chemistry that cause some fluid to shift into your tissue. Why does it collect in the legs and feet? When you're pregnant, your growing uterus puts pressure on your pelvic veins and your vena cava (a large vein on the right side of your body that receives blood from your lower limbs and carries it back to the heart). The pressure slows down circulation and causes blood to pool in your legs, forcing fluid from your veins into the tissues of your feet and ankles. This increased pressure is relieved when you lie on your side, and since the vena cava is on the right side of your body, left-sided rest works best.

Edema is most likely to be an issue during your third trimester, particularly at the end of the day, and it may be worse during the summer. After you have your baby, the swelling will disappear fairly rapidly as your body eliminates the excess fluid. As a result, you may find yourself urinating frequently and sweating a lot in the first days after childbirth.

When should I be concerned about swelling?
A certain amount of edema is normal in the ankles and feet during pregnancy. You may also have some mild puffiness in your hands and face. However, if you have severe and/or sudden swelling in your hands and face, call your doctor or midwife: it could be a sign of preeclampsia, a serious condition. Also call your caregiver if you notice that one leg is significantly more swollen than the other, especially if you have any pain or tenderness in your calf or thigh.

Can I do anything to minimize the puffiness?
Here are a few tips:
• put your feet up whenever possible. At work, it helps to keep a stool or pile of books under your desk; at home, try to lie on your left side when possible. Don't cross your legs while sitting.

• stretch your legs frequently while sitting: stretch your leg out, heel first, and gently flex your foot to stretch your calf muscles. Rotate your ankles and wiggle your toes.

• take breaks from sitting; get up and take a short walk every so often to keep your blood circulating.

• wear comfortable shoes that stretch to accommodate the swelling. Don't wear socks or stockings with tight bands around your ankles or calves.

• try waist-high maternity support stockings. You put them on before you get out of bed in the morning, so blood has no chance to pool around your ankles.

• drink plenty of water. Surprisingly, keeping hydrated helps your body retain less water.

• exercise regularly, especially by walking, swimming, or riding an exercise bike.

• eat well, and avoid junk food.

And try not to let it get you down. Although the sight of your swollen ankles will probably add to your feelings of ungainliness, edema is a temporary condition that will pass soon after you give birth.

-kristin

Swelling