The swelling is most noticeable during the second
half of the pregnancy; most pregnant women get it
to some degree. The pain can vary from being mild
to something more unpleasant; night cramps is another
sore complaint you may have to put up with if you
have swellings. Not hazardous but definitely uncomfortable,
some pointers on edema:
• The role of hormone in this discomfort is
that of kidney's having the tendency to hold on to
salt and therefore retaining water.
• Body parts most likely to swell are your feet,
hands and ankles; it is caused by water collecting
in the tissues.
• The growing uterus weighs heavily on your
pelvic veins and inferior vena cava; this slows down
circulation and instead causes blood to well up in
your legs.
• Sometimes the swelling can spread to your
face, as the effects of oestrogen and cortisol change
the fat distribution in the body.
• If the puffiness becomes excessive or sustains
for more than 24 hours then your doctor should be
informed - it could be a sign of something more serious,
preeclampsia.
• On its own it should not cause any alarm as
it poses no danger to mother or baby.
• Mild edema can be caused by hot weather
• Sitting for longer periods is another reason
• High blood pressure can trigger swelling
• You will notice more swellings in the evenings,
in the summer months and as you grow heavier
• If you are carrying multiples or have gained
excess weight or lead a very sedentary lifestyle,
then you are likely to get swellings
Things you can do..
• Drink lots of water to help flush excess fluid,
toxins from your system; drinking more will reduce
retention
• Stay active - move about and do some light
exercises like walking to keep your blood pumping
• Don't add salt to your foods and check the
salt content of everything you eat
• Sit down with your legs raised up or better
still lie down on your left side when you feel like
resting
• Try wearing support tights that are waist
high; this keeps your circulation in check
• Avoid socks or stockings that constrict at
the ankles or calves
• Eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetable and
avoid junk foods especially salty snacks, processed
foods and anything that is high in sodium
• Since fingers can swell, remove rings before
they get too tight
• Use cold water compress on swollen areas or
soak your feet in cool water
• When sitting stretch your calves often, rotate
your ankles and wriggle your toes
• Don't cross your legs when sitting as this
cuts of circulation
