Is swelling in pregnancy always dangerous?

Mild swelling in the feet and ankles is common in most pregnancies. The concern arises when it appears suddenly, accompanied by headaches or changes in vision.

Can swelling affect my baby?

Normal swelling does not affect your baby, but you must seek medical help if it happens due to preeclampsia or other complications.

Are there any safe exercises to reduce swelling?

Walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and gentle stretching can all help improve circulation and manage swelling.

Swollen Feet and Hands During Pregnancy: Causes and Tips

Pregnancy brings about numerous changes to your body, some delightful —like watching your baby bump —and others uncomfortable, like swelling.

Experiencing mild swelling in your feet or hands is not a cause for concern. The reason is the retention of extra fluid and changes in blood circulation to support the growing baby.

Hormonal shifts, increased pressure on veins, and prolonged standing can also contribute to swelling. However, learning about emergencies can help you consult your doctor promptly to receive timely medical care.

What Is Swelling in Pregnancy?

Swelling, or oedema, is a condition in which the body retains extra fluid in tissues. It is commonly observed in individuals during pregnancy, as their bodies retain water and blood to support the growth of their baby.

As a result, this fluid often accumulates in your feet, ankles, and hands due to gravity.
Swelling is expected to increase mostly in the third trimester of the pregnancy. It also becomes prominent in the evening or if you stand for a long period.

Why Do Some Pregnancies Cause More Swelling?

Pregnancy is unique for every individual, and so is the way their body responds to these changes. You may get swelling constantly during pregnancy, while it may be negligible in others. Here are some of the reasons behind this swelling:

Increased blood volume and fluid retention: Your blood volume can increase by 30-50% in the third trimester to support your baby. However, it also means that your body has more fluid to manage. The intensity of swelling depends on how well your body handles this fluid.
Hormonal changes: The blood circulation in your body can slow down because of the increase in progesterone during pregnancy. Thus, it is easier for your blood to pool in your hands and feet. When your blood vessels relax excessively or you are carrying multiple foetuses, swelling can increase.
Weight gain and lifestyle factors: Weight gain is a natural part of pregnancy, and it’s generally recommended to gain around 11 to 16 kilograms if you have a normal BMI. However, this extra weight can put pressure on your veins and lymphatic system. The swelling can worsen after prolonged periods of sitting or standing.
High salt intake: Salt causes your body to retain water, so consuming a lot of processed or salty foods can lead to increased swelling. This is more pronounced if your body is already retaining excess fluid.
Pregnancy complications: Sometimes, excessive swelling may signal severe medical conditions like preeclampsia, which involves high blood pressure and organ stress. Other symptoms may include sudden swelling, headaches, or changes in vision.

Are Some Women More Prone to Swelling?

Certain factors can increase swelling if you are in any of the following situations:

Blood volume and fluid retention increase more if you are carrying multiples
Retaining more fluid is normal in case of a second or subsequent pregnancy
Extra weight increases strain on the veins
Some people are naturally more prone to oedema due to family history
Reduced circulation, resulting from prolonged periods of sitting and standing, leads to fluid pooling

How Can You Reduce Swelling at Home?

There are ways to reduce discomfort that is common with swelling.

Rest with your feet raised above heart level whenever possible.
Walking or swimming are excellent low-impact activities to improve circulation and prevent fluid buildup.
Wearing compression socks may help alleviate foot swelling that occurs more frequently.
Limit your salt intake and drink plenty of water to help flush out excess sodium. Eat fresh foods over processed items to control your salt consumption.
Sleep on your left side, which helps improve kidney function and reduces fluid accumulation in your feet.

Emotional and Social Support Matters

Swelling can affect your mood and confidence. Your partner or family can support you in various ways.

Helping with chores to reduce prolonged standing.
Offering gentle foot massages.
Encouraging you to rest and practice relaxation.

Remember that mild swelling is unavoidable, so do not worry about it, as it can cause anxiety. Taking care of your emotional well-being is also crucial for a healthy pregnancy.

When Should You Call a Doctor?

Most swelling is harmless, unless you notice the following signs.

Severe swelling in any part of your body.
Swelling accompanied by high blood pressure.
Severe headaches, abdominal pain or lack of clarity in vision.
Rapid weight gain over a few days.

In such cases, contact your doctor immediately to prevent complications and treat them at the early stages.

Checklist: What to Do Next

You can reduce swelling and enjoy your pregnancy by taking proactive steps.

Monitor your swelling daily.
Elevate your feet multiple times a day.
Walk or swim regularly.
Limit salt and stay hydrated.
Watch for warning signs and consult your doctor if needed.
Seek emotional support and talk about your discomfort.

Swelling can be one of the most uncomfortable experiences during pregnancy. It is a way to support your growing baby through extra fluid retention and increased blood circulation. Some women tend to have pronounced swelling than others, which is also normal. Knowing the reason can help you receive timely medical care from your doctor.
You can enjoy a comfortable pregnancy by taking practical steps, making some adjustments and asking for emotional support when you need it.
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on Why Some Pregnancies Cause More Swelling in Feet and Hands

Is swelling in pregnancy always dangerous?
Mild swelling in the feet and ankles is common in most pregnancies. The concern arises when it appears suddenly, accompanied by headaches or changes in vision.
Can swelling affect my baby?
Normal swelling does not affect your baby, but you must seek medical help if it happens due to preeclampsia or other complications.
Are there any safe exercises to reduce swelling?
Walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, and gentle stretching can all help improve circulation and manage swelling.