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Varicose Veins and Pregnancy: What You Need to Know From Palm Clinic

Friday 26 April 2019, 12:30PM

By Beckie Wright

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It is quite normal for women to be worried about getting varicose veins when they become pregnant, and Palm Clinic can advise them before, during and after pregnancy. During pregnancy, your blood volume increases, while the rate at which blood flows from your legs to your pelvis decreases. This puts pressure on the veins, which can cause varicose veins. Varicose veins are enlarged veins that commonly occur in the legs, although during pregnancy they can also appear on the buttocks and vaginal area.

 

Hemorrhoids are another kind of varicose vein in the anus or rectum that occurs during pregnancy and is oftentimes a result of constipation. Hormonal changes can also lead to varicose veins, as increased progestin levels can dilate or open the veins. In addition, during pregnancy the uterus puts pressure on the inferior vena cava (the vein that carries blood from the legs and feet to the heart), further contributing to varicose veins. Varicose veins are generally harmless, although they may become itchy and uncomfortable.

 

The good news is they typically diminish within three months to a year after giving birth. While varicose veins can be hereditary, and you can’t prevent the circulatory changes that occur during pregnancy, there are some ways you can prevent or minimize varicose veins.

 

There are some preventative measures you can take before resorting to varicose vein procedures at Palm Clinic, and are ultimately your best treatment option during pregnancy. You should avoid sitting or standing in the same position for long periods of time. Make sure to take breaks to change your position, and avoid wearing high heels. It is better to wear lower-heel or flat shoes as this works your calf muscles, fostering healthy circulation.

 

Also, you should get regular exercise. Talk with your doctor to confirm if it is safe for you to exercise during pregnancy. You should also wear maternity support hosiery, as these put pressure on the legs, stimulating blood flow up the leg towards the heart. However, avoid wearing tight hose that cut off circulation. You should also elevate your legs periodically to improve circulation, and sleep on your left side. This will help relieve pressure on the inferior vena cava. Also, reduce sodium intake to minimise swelling of the veins, and drink plenty of water and eat enough fibre to prevent constipation.

 

Palm Clinic are always looking at new procedures to provide the best treatment possible, so for more information on body contouring, cosmetic clinics, skin and vein clinics and spider veins please go to https://www.palmclinic.co.nz .