How Pregnancy Relates to Varicose Veins

Sometimes when women get pregnant, they experience side effects beyond their control. One of those side effects can sometimes be varicose veins, or leg pain, which can be diagnosed with a simple leg pain screening. Varicose veins normally disappear within three-to-four months; although, sometimes they don’t go away at all. For example, if you had varicose veins before your pregnancy, have a family history of varicose veins, have had multiple pregnancies, tend to stand for long durations or if you’re overweight—your skin may need some tender love and care to return back to normal.

What you can do to keep varicose veins at bay

 Elevate your legs and feet whenever you can. Rest your legs on something when you’re sitting down, like a stool, to make it easier for blood to circulate throughout the body. When you’re lying down, keep your feet elevated on a pillow.

It’s ladylike to cross your legs, but for varicose veins, it’s not the best idea. Don't sit or stand for long periods without taking breaks to move around. This increases blood flow to your legs, which could help take some of the pressure off.

Two words: Compression stockings

Graduated-compression stockings are twice as thick as conventional pantyhose, but compression stockings are only available at medical supply stores and pharmacies. Their whole purpose is to make it easier for blood to flow up your leg, back toward your heart. They're tighter at the ankle and get looser as they go up the leg.

Try this: Slip on the stockings before getting out of bed, while you're still lying down, and make sure you keep them on all day. This makes it more comfortable to actually get out of bed, making for a hopefully less painful start to your day.

Exercise as much as you can, especially if you’re overweight. Talk to your doctor about a workout routine. They’ll be able to help you decide what’s best for your post-pregnancy body. Keep in mind, though, that even a short, brisk 30-minute walk can do wonders.

Sclerotherapy

This causes veins to scar and collapse, forcing the blood to reroute itself through the body’s healthier veins. The collapsed vein is then reabsorbed into local tissue and will eventually fade away. Keep in mind, however, that experts recommend waiting at least six months after delivering the baby to begin treatment.

If you have any questions about Fort Myers sclerotherapy, vein screening or ways to alleviate varicose veins, do not hesitate to call us at 239-694-VEIN or send us a quick email at info@eVeinscreening.com.