Swelling
Swelling during pregnancy can occur at any time, but most new mothers begin to notice increased swelling by the fifth month. This normal swelling, called edema, can also increase during the third trimester and is experienced primarily in the feet, ankles, legs, hands, and face.
What causes swelling?
When you are pregnant, your body produces about 50% more blood and body fluids to support the growth of your developing baby. This extra water retention also helps your body expand as your baby grows and requires more room. It even helps prepare your body for birth by preparing your pelvic joint and tissues for delivery.
Swelling can be aggravated by daily routines that require long periods of standing, high levels of caffeine or salt, low levels of potassium, and heat.
How can swelling be reduced?
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1. Avoid standing for long periods of time, if possible. At the very least, try to include breaks in which you can elevate your feet 6-12 inches above your heart for at least 15-20 minutes.
2. Avoid beverages that are high in caffeine.
3. Avoid foods that are high in sodium.
4. Eat foods high in potassium such as bananas.
5. Don't forget your prenatal vitamins!
6. Drink plenty of water.
7. Avoid spending a lot of time outdoors in hot weather.
8. Wear comfortable shoes that provide arch support and adequate room for your feet, which will swell throughout the day.
9. Ice swollen areas (such as your ankles).
10. Wear support hose or stockings.
When should I call my heath care provider?
Though some swelling is normal during pregnancy, if you experience sudden swelling in your hands or face, this could be a symptom of preeclampsia, and you should call your doctor immediately. Preeclampsia can prevent your baby from getting enough oxygen and food, resulting in a low birth weight.
Those women who are at increased risk for preeclampsia are: first time moms, women who are carrying multiples, women who had high blood pressure prior to pregnancy, women whose mothers or sisters had preeclampsia, teenage mothers, and mothers who are older than 40.
Symptoms of mild preeclampsia include:
- high blood pressure
- water retention
- protein in the urine
Symptoms of severe preeclampsia include:
- fatigue
- nausea/vomiting
- headaches
- blurred vision
- shortness of breath
- pain in the upper right abdomen
- easy bruising
Preeclampsia can be treated by your physician so it is important to seek medical attention should you experience any of these symptoms or sudden swelling of your hands or face.
