Varicose veins during pregnancy
Where do varicose veins appear?
Varicose veins mainly develop in the legs. However, you can also get them in the vulva (at the vaginal opening) or in the rectum. Varicose veins in the rectum are commonly known as hemorrhoids.
Are they painful and do they cause other health problems?
Varicose veins can cause quite significant leg pain. Your legs might feel heavy or restless and could throb, burn, or cramp. Some women find that their varicose veins do not cause them any issues, but that is not common.
You will likely find that any symptoms you have are worse as the day goes on because you have been on your feet for longer. In the morning, you usually feel better because you have been lying down and the pressure on your veins has eased.
Can anything be done to prevent them?
Walking or swimming helps circulation in general and is beneficial during pregnancy. Specific exercises like calf raises and marching in place are useful for helping blood flow in the legs.
There is no sure way to prevent varicose veins during pregnancy. However, you may be less likely to develop them if you:
- stay active
- don't sit for too long
- stop wearing high heels, if you currently wear them
- elevate your legs, if possible higher than your hips, when you are resting or sitting
- avoid wearing anything too tight around your waist or pelvic area
Can you get rid of varicose veins?
If you develop varicose veins, they will likely disappear without treatment once your baby is a few months old. But for some women, as mentioned, this can take up to a year.
Some people choose to undergo surgery to remove the affected vein or veins, but if you are considering this, the advice from specialists is to wait at least until twelve months have passed since childbirth.
What is the difference between stretch marks and varicose veins?
Stretch marks are thin pink or purple lines on the skin surface. You will usually see them appear on your stomach as pregnancy progresses because they form when the skin stretches. Varicose veins are different because they do not involve the skin, but solely the veins.
What to do if you already have varicose veins
If you have varicose veins, you can:
- walk or swim regularly
- avoid excessive weight gain
- change positions if you are standing or sitting for long periods
- sit with your legs elevated as often as possible
In any case, do not forget one fundamental thing: prevention is better than cure. Having a habit of and a predisposition toward prevention will greatly reduce the possibility of developing varicose veins during pregnancy, and the first step is undoubtedly to use compression stockings.
