What are Varicose Veins?

What are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are swollen veins that may bulge near the surface of the skin. Varicose veins are twisted, enlarged veins near the surface of the skin. They are most common in the legs and ankles. These blue or purple, sometimes squiggly veins are most likely to show up in your legs, though you may also get them in your almost anywhere in the lower half of your body. All veins have valves which stop the blood that is returning to your heart from flowing backwards. This is how the body pumps blood back into the heart against the force of gravity. Varicose veins develop when the valves don’t work properly and the vein walls become weak. Blood collects in the areas of weakness. Being overweight or pregnant or having a job where you must stand for long periods of time increases pressure on leg veins.

Varicose Veins Causes during Pregnancy

Varicose veins during pregnancy are normal. The extra volume of blood you produce during pregnancy is essential to support two growing bodies. It does, however, put extra pressure on your blood vessels, especially the veins in your legs, which have to work against gravity to push all that extra blood back up to your heart. Increased hormone levels during pregnancy also cause the muscular walls of the blood vessels to relax, which also increases your risk. Varicose veins may also develop as the womb (uterus) begins to grow. As the womb expands it puts pressure on veins in your pelvic area, which can sometimes cause them to become varicose.

What to do for Varicose Veins during Pregnancy

Take Rest

Rest frequently. Because your growing uterus is putting added pressure on the veins in your lower body, blood flow can become strained causing larger and swollen veins in your legs, vulva and rectum. Keep the blood circulating. Get off your feet whenever you can, and keep your legs elevated when sitting.

Exercise

Exercise is a key in preventing varicose veins. Exercise to increase blood flow and circulation. Even a short walk around the block can help keep your cardiovascular system functioning well. A regular walking program promotes circulation and may limit excessive weight gain during pregnancy. It will promote your circulation and decrease the risk of blood pooling in your veins.

Wear Comfortable Clothes

Make sure you wear clothes including underwear that fit well and don’t bind, especially around the tops of your legs. Wear compression stockings beginning early in pregnancy to prevent blood from pooling in the veins in the legs overcoming the effects of slow circulation and increased blood volume. Don’t wear tight belts or socks with tight elastic tops.

Sleeping and Sitting Poses

Elevate your feet often to increase blood flow. When your legs become fatigued and sore, sit with your feet propped up on a table or chair. When possible elevate your legs. This is important whether you are at work at your desk or lying down at night. Sleep with your feet elevated on a pillow. Sleep on your left side. The largest vein in your body is the vena cava and carries the largest amount of blood through your body.

Conclusion

Get your daily dose of vitamin C during pregnancy from your balanced diet, which keeps veins healthy. Opt for those sitting and sleeping poses that reduce pressure on your veins. Avoid standing for a longer period of time. You can wear maternity support hose. Put them on before you stand up out of bed in the morning. Varicose veins and pregnancy go hands in hands. But after you have delivered your baby, these varicose veins will get faded and you can also go for surgery but only after delivery. So eat healthy, take care and have a healthy pregnancy!