Managing Varicose Veins During Pregnancy
The swollen & raised blood vessels which bulge under or near the surface of the skin are called varicose veins. They are purple or blue in color which looks like an irregular curve or twisted and occurs mainly on the legs but can happen over vulva or rectum. It can happen to anybody but females are more prone to it, mostly pregnant women.
A varicose vein during pregnancy causes discomfort, achy, and heaviness in the legs of pregnant women. The skin may also feel throb, itchy, or burning around varicose veins. It impacts more at the end of the day if you are working and standing for long hours. Here we will try to get the insights on varicose veins during pregnancy.
Causes of Varicose Veins in Pregnancy:
Varicose veins happen when blood starts to get pooled in the veins as blood resists moving back to the heart, means when blood flow gets interrupted and subsequently blood will get to start accumulating at one location. We all know in pregnancy; our body goes through major changes which are not only limited to hormonal changes but body structure as well.
In pregnancy when the uterus grows to accommodate the baby, pressure comes in the large vein carrying deoxygenated blood into the heart which is called vena cava. This, in turn, put pressure on the veins of the legs. And moreover, during pregnancy progesterone level also goes high, which results or allows the blood vessels to relax more. This is why varicose veins become very common among pregnant women.
How can varicose veins be prevented in pregnancy?
It is very common to develop them during pregnancy and it causes discomfort & pain, which sometimes become difficult to bear. There are several varicose veins natural treatment which can be done or followed to prevent their occurrences and if not, then at least can minimize to some extent. They are:
1. Constipation to be avoided: It is the most common problem during pregnancy and can lead or increase the chances of getting varicose veins, so one should better take care of this. Avoid too salty food items; eat food items which carry high-fibres and most importantly drink a lot of water. You can also consult or ask your doctor for a stool softener, in case of constipation happens, for some relief.
2. Manage your weight: Although your weight increases in pregnancy as you are carrying the child but you should also keep an eye on your weight. As the weight increases, it will put pressure on the veins which can lead to developing varicose veins. So, be careful on the part of your weight gain.
3. Elevation Helps: Elevating your legs and feet helps the blood circulation. Try to do the same every 3-4 hours. The crossing of the legs & long standings should also be avoided while as it puts the pressure on the legs.
4. Try to do daily exercise: Exercising daily is the best remedy for any health issue and doctors also suggest that pregnant women should do exercise daily to avoid certain problems. It helps the blood circulation in the body and hence accumulation of blood doesn’t happen. Exercise is the best for varicose veins in pregnancy treatment.
5. Compression Stockings: It is the artificial tool designed especially for pregnant women which improve or helps in the blood circulation.
One should not feel stressed if it happens; it is very common and can be treated and minimized. Nowadays medical procedures are available to get it cured. But yes, following a healthy lifestyle can help you a lot to fight against many odds.