Varicose veins happen often during pregnancy because of the extra volume of blood your body produces in order to support not one but two lives. This extra blood when combined with extra added body weight and the baby’s weight can put a strain on your legs. This when combined with additionally produced progesterone which relaxes the blood vessels it often can lead to the appearance and formation of varicose veins.

 

If you did not have them before the pregnancy, the likelihood of them shrinking and disappearing after the birth are good. Varicose veins tend to be hereditary, so if your mother or grandmother had them during pregnancy, the chances are high that you may as well.

 

Is there anything you can do to try and avoid them all together?

 

Comfort Is Key – Make sure to wear non-binding clothes that fit well. Belts jeans, and even shoes can cause issues.

 

Watch your weight – 25 to 35 lbs. is recommended for pregnancy. Gaining excess over that amount puts undue pressure on your entire body.

 

Exercise! – Walk and keep that blood pumping!

 

Take Vitamins – Eating foods high in Vitamin C helps the body produce collagen and elastin which makes the body more readily able to snap back in to shape after the baby is born. Eating bone broth soup also boosts collagen levels.

 

Wear Support Hose and Elevate Your Legs – Support hose can give your veins extra stability. Elevation also helps alleviate pressure, flex your ankles regularly as well.

 

Though veins cannot be treated during a pregnancy, If the varicose veins gained do not fade once the baby has been born, come see us at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates. Please call us at 813-975-2800 or schedule an evaluation through our online form. Patient comfort and care are a priority here at Tampa Cardiovascular Associates. We look forward to talking with you.