Many pregnant women have to deal with varicose veins at some point in their pregnancy. Even though there are plenty of facilities to treat varicose veins in Plano, preventing them is a lot better. Pregnancy increases the risk of varicose veins but that does not mean that you cannot prevent it.
Steps to Prevent Varicose Veins During Pregnancy
1. Move Frequently
During pregnancy, moving around can get difficult. The abdomen gets in the way and you may be exhausted, especially during the last few months. However, moving is important if you want to prevent varicose veins. It promotes the circulation of blood. Consider walking for short distances or light exercise. Speak to your doctor to determine the types of exercise that may be appropriate.
2. Sleep on Your Left Side
The signs of varicose veins are first seen on the left legs. Sleeping on your left side may help relieve pressure from the veins in your abdomen. It makes it easy for the legs to drain.
3. Watch Your Weight
Even though it is common to put on some weight during pregnancy, you should be careful to gain an unhealthy amount. Hormonal changes and pregnancy cravings are responsible for most of it. Speak to your obstetrician to find out how much weight gain is healthy.
4. Wear Flat and Comfortable Shoes
High-heeled shoes are great but they prevent your leg muscles from working. They, therefore, keep blood in your veins.
5. Keep Your Legs Elevated
You may use gravity to facilitate draining of blood out of your leg veins. Try to keep your legs elevated above your heart throughout the day. When sleeping, use a pillow under your feet. It promotes the flow of blood.
6. Wear Maternity Hose
Use supportive pantyhose or high compression stockings to apply pressure on the outside of your legs. Maternity hose counteracts the pressure in your veins. It prevents swelling.
7. Do Not Cross Your Legs for Too Long
If you cross your legs, it is difficult for blood to flow out of your veins. Avoid it as much as you can.
8. Practice Deep Breathing Exercises
Deep breathing can help you improve the circulation of blood and prevent varicose veins. Sit in a comfortable position and raise your feet above your hips. Breathe in and breathe out slowly. Try the exercise for about ten minutes every day. As you breathe, avoid moving your shoulders.
9. Switch to a Low-Sodium Diet
If your diet is high in sodium, the risk of swelling is high. Swelling may promote varicose veins as it puts too much pressure on the veins. Consume no-salt-added products and find alternative seasoning options. Home-made meals are much better than restaurant food because you have full control of your sodium intake. Consider using sea salt instead of table salt.
When trying to prevent varicose veins in pregnancy, keep in mind that it may be caused by various factors. Implementing just one preventive measure is not enough. If you already have varicose veins, preventive measures may also help you relieve them.
It is also important to note that you may get varicose veins even if you do everything to prevent them. Fortunately, they go away three to six weeks after delivery. If they don’t resolve on their own, you may seek medical help.