Common leg issues

Pregnancy is an exciting time, with the body working overtime to prepare both mother and baby for the birth. Leg issues are experienced by 30% of women during the early phase of pregnancy and up to 70% of women in later pregnancy.

What happens during pregnancy?

During pregnancy, the veins have to transport about 20% extra blood around the body -equivalent to an extra liter - with the circulation and blood vessels coming under extra strain during the nine months of pregnancy and beyond.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause the vein walls to become more elastic and loosen up with the result that blood pools in the legs.

As pregnancy advances, the growing womb presses on the veins in the pelvic region, thus making the flow of venous blood back to the heart more difficult. Blood congestion increases and the risk of varicose veins also increases because the venous system is under extreme stress.

What you can do for your legs

You can cut down on the risk of developing varicose veins by wearing compression stockings during the day, putting your feet up frequently and asking your partner or friend to massage the cramps. You should also eat potassium-rich foods such as bananas. However the most effective remedy is exercise, this can be simple steps you can do while sitting down. Please click here for exercises you can do while sitting down.

For advice on how to reduce or even avoid leg issues, please click here for steps to healthier legs.

Please consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting a treatment with leg vein products during pregnancy or when breastfeeding.