Spider Veins Pregnancy Guide: Causes, Prevention & Treatment

Spider veins during pregnancy are a common concern for many expectant mothers. These small, twisted bluish or purplish veins are typically visible beneath the skin, resembling a spider’s web—hence the name. While spider veins are mostly harmless, they can cause mild discomfort such as itching or a burning sensation. More importantly, they are often a cosmetic concern.

What Causes Spider Veins During Pregnancy?

During pregnancy, hormonal changes—especially the rise in progesterone levels—cause the walls of blood vessels to relax. This, combined with increased blood volume and pressure on the lower body from the growing uterus, can lead to spider veins or varicose veins. Genetics plays a role as well. If your family members experienced spider veins during pregnancy, you’re more likely to develop them too.

Although spider veins often go away after pregnancy, usually within 3–5 months, it’s beneficial to adopt some preventive habits and lifestyle changes to reduce their appearance.

How to Prevent and Reduce Spider Veins During Pregnancy

1. Light Pregnancy-Safe Exercise

Engaging in light exercises such as walking, prenatal yoga, or swimming can help maintain healthy blood circulation. These activities reduce pressure in the leg veins and lower the risk of developing spider veins during pregnancy. Most spider vein specialists recommend at least 15–20 minutes of mild exercise daily.

2. Control and Manage Weight

Weight gain is natural during pregnancy, but gaining excess weight increases pressure on your veins—especially in your legs and lower abdomen. Maintaining a healthy pregnancy weight can reduce the chances of developing spider veins on your legs, face, or even stomach during pregnancy.

3. Use a Recliner to Elevate Legs

Elevating your legs with a recliner or footrest helps improve venous return and reduces the pressure on leg veins. Regular use of a recliner is especially beneficial in the third trimester when blood volume and pressure are at their peak.

4. Sleep on Your Left Side

Sleeping on your left side improves blood flow and reduces pressure on the inferior vena cava, a large vein responsible for returning blood from the lower body to the heart. This position is also recommended to reduce swelling and the appearance of spider veins after pregnancy.

5. Wear Compression Socks or Support Hose

Compression socks and maternity support hose gently squeeze the legs, helping blood move upward and preventing pooling in the veins. These are particularly effective for women who stand or sit for long periods during the day.

Spider Veins on the Stomach During Pregnancy

While most commonly seen on the legs or face, spider veins on the stomach during pregnancy can also appear due to stretching skin and increased blood circulation. These are generally harmless and usually fade after delivery. However, wearing supportive maternity belts and keeping the abdominal area moisturized can help.

Do Spider Veins Go Away After Pregnancy?

In many cases, spider veins go away after pregnancy, especially if they are mild. It may take several weeks to months post-delivery for them to fade completely. However, if they persist or become uncomfortable, consult a specialist for spider vein treatment options.

Karishma Clinic, the spider vein specialist in Pune recommends use of compression socks and support hose, especially during pregnancy to keep the pressure from building up in the legs and calf muscles as result of excess weight and blood in body. The risk of spider veins is lowered with the use of these accessories.