The body goes through a lot of changes during pregnancy. A growing fetus places additional weight and stress on the inferior vena cava, the vein that returns blood back to the heart from the feet and legs. As a result of this increase in pressure, many women experience varicose veins. For many women, symptoms improve after birth, but in some cases further treatment may be required.
Risk Factors:
- Genetics
- Existing varicose veins
- Carrying multiples (twins, triplets, etc)
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Prolonged sitting or standing
Symptoms:
- Achy sensation or leg pain
- Pain while sitting or standing
- Visibly protruding varicose veins – may appear bulging or twisted
Diagnosis:
- Physical exam
- Ultrasound
In many cases, your physician might choose to evaluate the severity of your symptoms after child birth.
Treatments:
- Elevating feet and legs
- Compression stockings
- Taking walks or exercising to promote circulation