Hormones and varicose veins
Varicose Veins During Pregnancy: Why they appear and how to manage them
"Yes, they are very common." Here is everything you need to know to relieve the discomfort of varicose veins during those nine months.
How does circulation work?
Imagine two highways in your body: Arteries carry blood from the heart to the tissues, while Veins return the "used" blood to the heart. Veins have valves that prevent blood from flowing backward; when these weaken due to hormones and uterine pressure, varicose veins appear.
8 Strategies to relieve pain
1. Limit standing
Standing for long periods worsens symptoms. Rest your legs whenever you can.
2. Graduated Compression
Silca stockings are your number one defense against swelling and heaviness.
3. Physical Exercise
Swimming or walking helps blood return to the heart by activating the muscle pump.
4. Cold Therapy
Cold showers or ice on sore areas provide immediate relief.
5. Leaning forward
Lean on a table to shift the pressure of the uterus away from the pelvic veins.
6. Yoga Ball
Sitting on the ball relieves pelvic pressure and is great preparation for labor.
Post-partum
Many varicose veins fade after childbirth, but it's not a rule. We recommend a visit to a vascular surgeon after the birth for a check-up.
