Lower limb Swelling during Pregnancy

It is common that ankles get swollen during pregnancy.
It usually gets worse towards the end of pregnancy.

Lower limb swelling causes:
1- The body holds more fluids during pregnancy.
2- Slower blood flow to the legs due to uterus pressure on some veins.
3- Hormonal changes.
4- Standing for long time.
5- Not drinking enough water.

Tips to reduce swelling:
1- Drink enough water and other liquids.
2- Avoid salty food.
3- Avoid standing up for long time.
4- Elevate the legs above heart level for 30 minutes, 3 – 4 times a day.
5- sleep with your legs lifted up using a pillow.
6- Sit with your feet up.
7- Exercise the feet by:
a. moving them up and down 30 times.

b. rotate them 8 times each side.

8- Sleep on your side.
9- Wearing compression stockings.
10- Take short walks.
11- Avoid wearing tight shoes or socks with bands tight on the ankles.
12- foot massage and reflexology might help.

Visit your doctor when the swelling is:
1- Only in one leg, that might be an indication of a blood clot.
2- Sudden increase in swelling, that might be an indication of preeclampsia.
3- Very painful.