Varicose Veins During Pregnancy. Prevention, Treatment, and Management
Pregnant women are undeniably incredible for a multitude of reasons. Their ability to create and nurture life within their bodies is remarkable. The pregnancy journey is a beautiful and transformative experience showcasing the strength, resilience, and love that women possess.
They certainly don't deserve varicose veins.
Unfortunately, varicose veins are quite common during pregnancy, with up to half of pregnant women experiencing them.
Varicose veins can cause aching, throbbing, and burning sensations in the legs. They can also cause swelling in the feet and ankles. Sometimes, the veins can be painful to the touch and cause skin discoloration. Hemorrhoids are a type of varicose vein and can erupt in the vulva (vulva varicosities). As such, they are an unwelcome addition to an already difficult journey.
Fortunately, there is hope.
Let's examine the connection between pregnancy and varicose veins, why they occur, risk factors, treatment, and outcomes.
Why Do Varicose Veins Occur During Pregnancy?
During pregnancy, elevated hormones such as estrogen and progesterone increase vein compliance making them softer and more easily stretched out. Progesterone signals the body to increase blood flow, which places additional pressure inside the veins.
Pregnancy also increases circulating blood volume which can double and even quadruple in many women.
Additionally, during pregnancy, increased abdominal pressure caused by the growing uterus places additional pressure inside the veins. This combination of factors increased the pressure on the superficial veins in the legs causing them to stretch, twist, and bulge forming varicose veins.
Changes in the lower body
Pregnancy can increase pressure on the lower body veins. The added stress can cause vein valves and walls to become weakened, slowing down the return of blood to the heart and leading to the pooling of blood in the veins. The buildup of blood can cause the veins to swell and create varicose veins.
Varicose veins can also occur in the vagina during pregnancy. This phenomenon is due to the increased pressure on the lower body's veins and the resulting blood accumulation. Symptoms can include vaginal swelling, itching, and pain.
How Do You Manage Varicose Veins During Pregnancy?
Varicose veins during pregnancy are not a risk to your unborn child. Nevertheless, they aren't exactly a welcome addition, either.
Fortunately, most women find that varicose veins diminish naturally after delivery. However, there are strategies for minimizing discomfort. Here are a few things you can do to manage – even prevent – varicose veins.
Prevention
There are a few lifestyle changes and exercises that you can adopt to avoid issues with varicose veins.
- Maintaining a healthy weight. Being overweight can put undue strain on the veins, causing varicose veins to develop. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight before and throughout pregnancy is crucial.
- Exercising regularly. Getting enough exercise helps strengthen musclesand improve blood circulation, reducing the chances of developing varicose veins. We recommend at least 30 minutes of brisk exercise five days a week.
- Elevating your legs. Elevating your feet above your heart periodically throughout the day can help minimize pressure in the veins and promote better circulation. Try using pillows or a special footrest to elevate your legs.
Treatment
While varicose veins are common during pregnancy, there are various treatment options to help manage the condition. Non-surgical options are typically recommended during pregnancy, as they are generally considered safe and effective.
- Compression stockings. These specially designed garments apply gentle pressure to the tissues in the legs, which helps improve blood circulation and lessen swelling. Your doctor can prescribe them. They are available in several compression levels.
- Lifestyle changes. Incorporating healthy activities and lifestyle choices, such as exercising regularly, elevating your legs, and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting, can also help manage varicose veins.
- Massage. Massage therapy improves circulation. It can be done at home or by a professional massage therapist.
Management
In addition to treatment options, these tips and support measures can help manage varicose veins.
- Stay hydrated. Proper hydration can help decrease leg swelling and relieve discomfort associated with varicose veins.
- Wear loose and comfortable clothing. Loose-fitting clothes made from breathable materials to promote better circulation. Avoid tight clothing that can restrict blood circulation.
- Avoid long periods of standing or sitting. Take frequent breaks during long periods of standing or sitting to relieve pressure on the veins in your legs. Alternate between sitting, lying down, and standing throughout the day.
- Use support stockings. Wearing support stockings throughout the day can help manage varicose veins and prevent further complications. They can be worn under regular clothes to provide compression and support.
- Manage stress. Stress can contribute to the worsening of varicose veins. Take steps to manage your stress by practicing stress-relieving techniques, such as deep breathing or mindful meditation.
- Seek support. If you're experiencing significant discomfort or complications from varicose veins, don't hesitate to consult your doctor or healthcare provider.
Overall, pregnancy-related varicose veins are typically harmless and can be managed effectively. By following prevention strategies, seeking treatment, and following management tips, you can minimize discomfort and reduce your likelihood of experiencing complications.
Post-Pregnancy Treatment for Varicose Veins
After delivery, you might elect to undergo minimally invasive interventions to address varicose veins directly. These treatments, such as sclerotherapy and radiofrequency ablation, can help lessen the visible signs of varicose veins and alleviate the associated symptoms, such as pain and swelling.
At Georgia Endovascular, our experts can provide you with the latest, minimally invasive treatments to minimize varicose veins and help you manage your symptoms. We will work with you to develop the best treatment plan for your needs so you can get back to feeling your best.
