Will varicose veins go away after pregnancy?

They often improve within a year after birth, but in some women, especially with multiple pregnancies or family history, they may remain.

Are varicose veins harmful to my baby?

No. Varicose veins affect your circulation, not the placenta. They mainly cause discomfort for you.

Can lifestyle changes really make a difference?

Yes. Staying active, elevating your legs, and wearing compression stockings can reduce discomfort and slow worsening.

Should I worry if a vein suddenly becomes very painful or red?

Yes. Seek medical advice immediately, as this could indicate a clot that needs urgent treatment.

Varicose Veins in Pregnancy: Why They Happen and Whether They Go Away

Pregnancy brings more than just a growing belly. You may notice your legs feeling heavy at the end of the day, or blue-green veins bulging under the skin. For many women, varicose veins show up suddenly in the second or third trimester. They may itch, ache, or simply make you feel self-conscious. Understanding why they happen is the first step to managing them without unnecessary worry.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that usually appear on the legs, but can also develop around the vulva or rectum (haemorrhoids). Veins have one-way valves that help blood return to the heart. When these valves weaken or the walls of the veins relax, blood pools and the veins enlarge, becoming visible under the skin.

During pregnancy, this process becomes more common because your circulatory system is under extra strain. Your body produces about 50% more blood to nourish your baby, and your blood vessels must carry this increased volume back against gravity.

Why Varicose Veins Matter in Pregnancy

Varicose veins are rarely dangerous during pregnancy, but they can affect your comfort, mobility, and confidence.

Physical discomfort: You may experience aching, throbbing, or heaviness in your legs, especially after long hours of standing or travelling.
Visible changes: Bulging, rope-like veins on the calves or thighs can affect how you feel about your body image during pregnancy.
Swelling and itching: The skin around the veins may feel tight, itchy, or irritated.
Complications: While uncommon, severe varicose veins can increase the risk of superficial clots (thrombophlebitis).

For most mothers, varicose veins are a temporary sign of the circulatory changes of pregnancy, not a threat to the baby.

Causes and Risk Factors

Several overlapping factors contribute to the sudden onset of varicose veins:

Increased blood volume: Your circulatory system expands to support the placenta and baby, straining your leg veins.
Hormonal changes: Progesterone relaxes blood vessel walls, making them more prone to dilation.
Growing uterus: As your uterus enlarges, it presses on the inferior vena cava (the main vein carrying blood from your legs to the heart), slowing circulation.
Family history: Genetics strongly influence whether you develop varicose veins. If your mother or grandmother had them, your risk is higher.
Multiple pregnancies: The more times you are pregnant, the greater the likelihood of developing varicose veins.
Lifestyle habits: Long hours of standing (for teachers, shopkeepers, factory workers), sitting cross-legged, or wearing tight clothing can worsen circulation.

How Doctors Diagnose Varicose Veins

In most cases, your gynaecologist or a general physician can diagnose varicose veins by examining your legs. If pain, swelling, or redness suggest a blood clot, a Doppler ultrasound may be ordered to check blood flow. This is painless and safe in pregnancy.

Managing Varicose Veins During Pregnancy

Varicose veins can’t always be prevented, but several steps can reduce discomfort and prevent them from worsening.

Stay active: Walking, prenatal yoga, or gentle stretching boosts circulation. Even short walks during office breaks can help.
Elevate your legs: Rest with your feet on a pillow or stool, especially after standing for long periods.
Change positions often: Avoid standing or sitting for more than an hour without moving.
Compression stockings: Specially designed medical stockings improve circulation by applying gentle pressure.
Sleep on your left side: This reduces pressure on the vena cava, improving blood return from your legs.
Choose comfortable clothing: Loose cotton leggings or maternity-friendly salwar kameez are better than tight elastic around your thighs.
Hydrate and eat fibre-rich foods: Prevent constipation, which can worsen pressure and lead to haemorrhoids.

Always consult your doctor before starting compression wear or new exercise routines during pregnancy.

What Happens After Delivery?

For many mothers, varicose veins shrink within 3 to 12 months after childbirth as blood volume returns to normal and the uterus no longer presses on pelvic veins. However, complete disappearance isn’t guaranteed.

Temporary for some: First-time mothers often notice significant improvement postpartum.
Persistent for others: If you have multiple pregnancies, a strong family history, or severe varicose veins, they may remain even after delivery.
Treatment options: If veins remain painful or cosmetically concerning, doctors may recommend procedures such as sclerotherapy or laser treatment after you’ve completed breastfeeding.

Emotional and Practical Support

Beyond the physical discomfort, varicose veins can affect how you feel about your body. Many women worry about looking “unattractive” in sarees, skirts, or maternity dresses. Remember that varicose veins are common and often temporary.

Self-compassion matters: They are not a sign of poor health or neglect.
Support networks: Talk openly with friends, family, or support groups—many women have experienced the same changes.
Professional help: If veins are painful or your self-image is affected, consult your doctor about safe options.

Varicose veins in pregnancy may feel uncomfortable and sometimes alarming, but they are a common part of the body’s adjustment to supporting new life. While they usually improve after delivery, some may persist. Paying attention to circulation, staying active, and using supportive care can make a meaningful difference. And if they remain beyond pregnancy, safe medical treatments are available.
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 Varicose Veins in Pregnancy: Why They Happen and Whether They Go Away

Will varicose veins go away after pregnancy?
They often improve within a year after birth, but in some women, especially with multiple pregnancies or family history, they may remain.
Are varicose veins harmful to my baby?
No. Varicose veins affect your circulation, not the placenta. They mainly cause discomfort for you.
Can lifestyle changes really make a difference?
Yes. Staying active, elevating your legs, and wearing compression stockings can reduce discomfort and slow worsening.
Should I worry if a vein suddenly becomes very painful or red?
Yes. Seek medical advice immediately, as this could indicate a clot that needs urgent treatment.