Why Do Pregnant Women Experience Swelling in Their Legs and Feet?

There are many reasons for swelling in the legs and feet of pregnant women, such as increased blood volume, retention of sodium and water in the body, and increased pressure in the pelvis. Generally speaking, it will not have too much impact on physical health, but it is also necessary to improve it through certain methods to avoid swelling getting worse.

1. What causes swelling in the legs and feet of pregnant women

1. Increased blood volume: Starting from the sixth week of pregnancy, the blood volume of women gradually increases until it reaches a peak at the 34th week. After the increase in blood volume, the interstitial fluid in the body of women will also increase accordingly, which causes swelling in the legs.

2. Retention of sodium and water in the body: During pregnancy, the hormones secreted by the placenta and aldosterone secreted by the adrenal glands increase, resulting in retention of sodium and water in the bodies of women. This condition can easily lead to decreased urine output and swelling in the legs of pregnant women.

3. Increased pressure in the pelvis: The enlargement of the uterus forces an increase in pressure within the pelvis of women, which can affect the venous blood flow in the lower limbs. Normally, swelling can be relieved through appropriate sleep and rest. These phenomena are physiological and do not require medication or treatment.

2. How to deal with swelling in the legs and feet of pregnant women

1. Dietary adjustment: When dealing with swelling in the feet of pregnant women, attention should first be paid to diet and dietary adjustment. Foods in daily meals should be kept as light as possible, avoiding excessive saltiness and greasiness; ensure the intake of high-quality protein; and control the intake of water to maintain on-demand intake to avoid drinking too much water.

2. Moderate exercise: Many pregnant women experience swelling in their feet to a large extent due to prolonged standing or sitting. In this case, moderate exercise can be helpful. For example, taking a walk after meals, getting up and moving around after sitting for a while, regularly massaging the legs, and if conditions permit, swimming in small amplitudes. These activities can effectively eliminate swelling in the feet of pregnant women.