nuhahyearlyLaunch pricing - Get £50 off!nuhahyearlyYour body produces 50% more fluid during pregnancy, which pools in your lower limbs. Swelling is worst at the end of the day, in hot weather, and in the third trimester. Keep moving, elevate your feet, stay hydrated, and wear comfortable shoes. Sudden swelling of face and hands needs urgent assessment for pre-eclampsia.
Your body produces roughly 50% more blood and fluids to support the baby. The growing uterus puts pressure on veins returning blood from your legs. Progesterone causes blood vessel walls to relax, allowing fluid to leak into surrounding tissues.
End of the day, after standing or sitting in one position, in hot weather, and during the third trimester. Some swelling is entirely normal.
Keep moving. Gentle walking and ankle circles. Avoid standing or sitting still for long periods. Elevate your feet. Prop feet above hip level when sitting. Stay hydrated. Drinking water helps your body flush excess fluid. Comfortable shoes. Your feet may go up half a size. Avoid heels. Compression stockings. Put on first thing in the morning. Sleep on your side. From 28 weeks, takes pressure off the vena cava. Swimming. Water pressure helps push fluid back into your veins.
Contact your maternity unit immediately if you experience sudden swelling of face, hands, or feet, a severe headache, vision changes like blurring or flashing lights, or pain below your ribs on the right side. These can be signs of pre-eclampsia.
Swelling in just one leg with pain, redness, or warmth could indicate a DVT. Seek medical advice the same day.
Postpartum swelling can get worse in the first few days before improving. It usually resolves within 1 to 2 weeks.
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