Why Does Swelling Occur During Pregnancy?

When we discover a pregnancy, we should already be prepared to face changes in the body¹, weight gain, and common symptoms such as nausea, frequent urges to urinate throughout the day, and swelling during pregnancy, which is especially common in the final months.

When It Occurs

The swelling or edema² as doctors call it, usually starts at the end of the second trimester, causing a feeling of heaviness in the legs, discomfort when putting on shoes, and even while wearing wedding bands, rings, and bracelets.

Edema, or swelling during pregnancy as it is commonly called, occurs due to fluid retention that mainly affects the lower limbs. As the baby grows, it compresses the blood vessels in the pelvic area, which makes it harder for blood in the legs to circulate back to the heart. This resistance in circulation makes the walls of the blood vessels leak fluid, causing swelling in the affected area.

It’s nothing to be alarmed about, since 98% of women experience swelling during pregnancy. However, the chances can be reduced and discomfort minimized, allowing the woman to get through this phase and maintain a normal life.

What Causes It

Another factor that can contribute to increased swelling during pregnancy is excessive heat. Women whose final trimester falls during very hot seasons like summer often suffer even more from swelling in the legs, feet, and hands.

Swelling on the face and hands during pregnancy deserve extra attention, especially if it comes on suddenly or is very pronounced. This should be reported to your obstetrician for evaluation, as this swelling can be a sign of pre-eclampsia and may require special care to ensure the pregnancy continues healthily for both mother and baby.

How to Reduce Swelling During Pregnancy?

Some precautions are recommended even before becoming pregnant so that swelling during pregnancy doesn’t become a major complication and does not interfere with the future mom’s daily routine.

Taking care of your body and health during the planning phase is extremely important, as women who are overweight, smokers, or have a poor diet tend to suffer even more from swelling during this time, reducing blood circulation and often requiring special care in addition to obvious discomfort that is even greater than usual.

Reducing Salt in Food

During pregnancy, specialists most often recommend that salt should be reduced or completely removed from meals. After all, salt is one of the main causes of fluid retention in the body, which increases swelling in the legs and feet³.

Physical exercise—of course, only when recommended by your doctor—is also a way to prevent and reduce swelling. Water aerobics or light walks are top options for pregnant women to maintain good health, prepare for delivery, and also keep weight gain during pregnancy well controlled.

Comfortable Clothing and Shoes

Wearing more comfortable clothes and shoes also helps manage discomfort, since tight clothing can increase swelling even more by further impacting blood flow.

Rest breaks are necessary, especially in the third trimester when the belly gets very heavy. Resting with your legs elevated, or even with the support of pillows, can help blood circulation work better, decreasing swelling.

Drinking plenty of fluids and eating healthy will provide a better quality of life during pregnancy. Of course, swelling is normal during this stage, but you should let your obstetrician know about any unusual swelling so a proper evaluation can be done, and additional exams can be ordered if necessary. Take advantage of your prenatal visits, show the doctor the main areas affected by swelling, and follow the medical recommendations.

See also: High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy – How to Control It?