Guest Post
Whether it’s your first or your third, pregnancy is an exciting time for you and your family. There are a lot of changes going on in your body to prepare it for the delivery of new life. As part of this, your body has an increased amount of blood flow, which is why you have a higher chance of developing varicose veins during pregnancy.
However, there are a few things that you can do to prevent varicose veins during pregnancy:
1. Create healthy habits. Healthy habits help to prevent varicose veins, and promote good health all around for you and your baby. Make sure you are eating a balanced diet with substantial vitamin C, as it helps promote good blood flow.
In addition, exercise each day. Cycling, swimming and walking are low-impact exercises that help move blood through your veins.
2. Invest in compression socks.
Compression socks provide constriction to your legs, where varicose veins are most likely to develop. This tight fit can help to promote blood flow to prevent blood from pooling in your veins, which causes varicose veins to form.
3. Dress smart. While compression socks are recommended, other tight-fitting clothing is not. Instead, make sure you are wearing loose-fitting apparel.
Wearing high heels while you are pregnant is also not recommended, as it can result in circulation issues. Avoiding both of these types of clothing will make you and baby more comfortable during your nine months.
4. Pay attention to your legs.
Whether you stand or sit for a long period of time, it can have the same effect on your legs. A stagnant position can lead to blood pooling in your veins. Make sure you are moving around throughout the day and spending time elevating your legs as well.
Propping your legs on a chair or stool can help to promote good circulation. Add ankle flexes for extra blood flow benefits.
5. Avoid heavy lifting. Lifting heavy objects while you are pregnant can be challenging, resulting in straining. This straining can increase vein visibility and your chance of forming varicose veins.
After pregnancy, the appearance of varicose veins may diminish. However, you may want to consider consulting a medical professional for treatment. There are several treatment options available and a doctor can help you determine what works best for you. If varicose veins are left untreated, they can lead to health complications that can be life threatening.
Dr. Yan Katsnelson has more than 20 years of experience in surgical treatment of cardiovascular diseases and currently practices at USA Vein Clinics. He specializes in non-surgical treatment of vein disease to oimprove and enhance the lives of his patients.