Varicose Veins: An Unwelcomed Effect of Pregnancy

October 07, 2008

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Varicose Veins: An Unwelcomed Effect of Pregnancy

by Lisa Rodriguez, R.N. and Marjorie Greenfield, M.D.
reviewed by Laura Jana, M.D., F.A.A.P.

Pregnancy brings about many different body changes. Some, like your expanding abdomen, may be a badge of pride, while others may be less welcome and even unexpected. Varicose veins definitely fit into the second category.

As your growing uterus places increased pressure on the circulation system in your lower body, blood flow can slow down. In some women, blood pools in certain veins where gravity's pull is the greatest. This may result in one or more bulging, bluish, itchy, achy veins. These varicose veins usually occur in your legs, but they also can develop in your vulva, vagina, or rectum.

Varicose veins tend to run in families, and many times women first notice them during pregnancy. With subsequent pregnancies, varicose veins tend to get worse.

What can I do about varicose veins?
Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent varicose veins, but there are a few things you can do to help reduce the swelling and soreness you may experience, and prevent them from becoming worse:

Wear support hose.

Avoid long periods of sitting or standing. When sitting, elevate your legs above the level of your hips as often as possible.

Exercise regularly.

Don't sit with your legs crossed.

Don' t wear socks or knee-hi stockings with a tight elastic band at the top.

Avoid excessive weight gain.

Typically, a few months after delivery, most of the symptoms associated with your varicose veins will diminish significantly, although the veins themselves will likely remain. If their appearance or the aching they can cause continues to bother you, ask your doctor about treatment options such as sclerotherapy, in which a liquid is injected into the vein to cause it to scar closed, or surgery to remove the veins.


RELATED INFORMATION

			Hemorrhoids During and After Pregnancy
			Stretch Marks During Pregnancy
			Back and Body Symptoms in Pregnancy

Created March 16, 2001
Reviewed March 22, 2001

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