Now that you have a baby on the way, there is so much to learn about and prepare for. It is completely natural to be excited about the changes in your body as it nurtures the baby growing inside you.
Some changes are surprises
Not all surprises are brought by the stork. Around six months, you may find another surprise developing: varicose veins.
Whether spider-like or bulging veins begin to appear, they may be brought on by the increased blood flow in your body; after all, your circulatory system is working for two people now. As the pressure in your veins increases, the progesterone in your body works to relax the veins. Your body will still circulate blood through all of your blood vessels, but the effect can be like pushing marinara sauce through al dente pasta.
Must you have varicose veins?
Not necessarily. Some women never develop them during pregnancy.
Vein care specialists will tell you that you are more at risk of getting varicose veins if they run in your family, but fortunately, if you did not have varicose veins before you pregnancy, they will likely diminish during the first few months of enjoying your newborn baby.
Should you choose to have more than one baby, however, you will likely see the return of your varicose veins. In fact, the same veins will show up just like an old friend.
The good news is that although you may not appreciate the purple and blue mottling around the affected area or the distended vein swelling up under you skin, they are generally harmless. Your vein care specialist will want to keep an eye on them to make sure you do not develop an infection from inflamed veins.
Your Role in This
Spoil yourself.
There is no better time than during pregnancy to make sure you get all of the pampering you – and your baby – deserve.
Begin with a balanced diet of healthy foods and portions so your weight does not increase by more than thirty or so pounds, depending on your physician’s advice. Add the right vitamins to ensure that the two of you are getting all the right nutrients; your veins will love you for it.
Be comfortable. Wear properly fitting clothing and avoid elastics around your belly and tops of your calves or thighs. Put your stilettos away until after the baby arrives; they are not only difficult to balance in, but they also can add to the likelihood of you getting varicose veins.
Alternate between exercise and rest. Something as simple as taking a walk can improve your circulation and help reduce the likelihood that varicose veins will appear. Spend some time resting, too, by elevating your feet.
When you turn in for the night, nestled among the pillows around you, choose your left side for sleeping. You put less pressure on the major blood vessels, allowing for stronger circulation.
What if the varicose veins do not recede after giving birth?
If you are worried that the veins have not receded to your satisfaction, it may be time to reach out to professional help by seeking vein treatment from a Miami vein care specialist. During the consultation, your vascular doctor can discuss treatment options with you.
