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Swollen feet are a common experience for many pregnant women, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy. This condition, known as edema, occurs because the body retains more fluid, and the growing uterus puts pressure on the veins, which can reduce blood circulation.
What causes swollen feet during pregnancy?
Edema is swelling in the body caused by fluid accumulation. During pregnancy, extra body fluid prepares the pelvic joints and tissue for delivery, accounting for 25% of the weight gain.
Mild swelling of the feet is a common pregnancy symptom. It is first noticeable in the fifth month and increases in the third trimester. Swelling will dissipate within a few days or weeks after delivery.
There are multiple causes of edema during pregnancy, including:
- Cardiac output increases by 50% —compared to a non-pregnant state. The increased blood supply helps support a healthy pregnancy and fetal development —but increased fluid can build up in the feet.
- When the enlarged uterus compresses the inferior vena cava (large vein), it obstructs the outflow of blood from the femoral (leg) veins, causing swollen feet. Due to a growing uterus pushing the small and large intestines upward, digestion slows down.
- The hormone progesterone slows digestion, increasing fluid absorption in the large intestine and leading to swollen feet. Progesterone also slows circulation and relaxes blood vessels, making it easier for fluid to accumulate.
- The adrenal glands produce hormones (aldosterone and cortisol) during pregnancy, causing fluid retention in the feet and lower limbs.
Are there ways to reduce swelling during pregnancy?
Swollen feet are a normal part of pregnancy. The characteristics of normal swelling are:
- Appears gradually.
- Worsens in hot weather.
- Worsens by the end of the day.
- Worsens closer to the due date.
- Lessens when lying down or raising the feet.
- Swelling is equal on both feet.
While delivery may be the only solution to reduce swelling, it’s still possible to address the problem at home. You can try a few of these approaches:
- Avoid standing or sitting for long periods.
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Compression socks gradually increase pressure in your legs and move the excess fluid back into the blood vessels throughout the body.
- Drink plenty of water. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends eight to ten glasses of water daily.
- Lower sodium (salt) intake; increase potassium intake.
- Decrease coffee intake—increased production of urine.
- Elevate the feet to increase blood flow toward the heart.
- Keep active throughout the day— short walks or gentle exercise.
- Sleeping on the left side of the body helps increase blood flow to the heart.
- Limit time outdoors in hot weather.
- Wear loose-fitting clothing.
When should I seek medical advice for swollen feet?
Pregnancy-related edema is normal. But in rare circumstances, swelling results from a medical disorder.
The two most serious conditions that cause foot swelling during pregnancy are:
Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a dangerous pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure. It affects pregnant persons in the second half of pregnancy, leading to fluid retention.
The first symptoms of preeclampsia include a sudden swelling on one foot during pregnancy, along with shortness of breath, dizziness, nausea, high blood pressure, and severe and persistent headaches.
Complications of preeclampsia include damage to major organs and problems in the growing fetus. If not treated, it can be a fatal condition.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the formation of a blood clot in the deep vessels of one leg. The risk of DVT increases due to several changes in the body that promote clot formation.
DVT-related swelling is unilateral (affecting one leg), sudden, and more pronounced than typical pregnancy-related edema. In addition, the affected leg experiences pain, tenderness, redness, and warmth.
If the DVT breaks free and travels to blood vessels in the lungs—pulmonary embolism— it is fatal.
Preeclampsia and DVT are rare occurrences but are considered medical emergencies that require prompt treatment to prevent complications for both the mother and baby. Contact your obstetrics and gynecology healthcare provider immediately if you suspect you have one of these conditions.
Why are my feet getting bigger during pregnancy?
In addition to edema, other changes increase the size of your feet, including:
Less arch support
During pregnancy, your body produces two hormones—relaxin and progesterone– whose primary role is to loosen tendons, ligaments, joints, and muscles.
While these hormones facilitate and ease birthing, their effects are seen throughout the body—including your feet.
Combining extra weight and hormones causes your feet to widen, flatten, and lengthen. The increased weight exacerbates the pressure on your feet, causing plantar fasciitis and muscle and tendon strains.
As a result of widening and lengthening, you may need a larger shoe size. These effects may become permanent after pregnancy.
Ingrown toenails
Tight-fitting shoes caused by swelling and stress can lead to ingrown toenails. An ingrown toenail may lead to infection, bone disorder, or a recurring problem if left untreated.
Bunions
Rapid weight gain increases pressure on your feet. This can cause a weight shift when standing, making your arches unstable and pushing the metatarsal bone outward, leading to bunion formation.
The pregnancy hormone relaxin loosens the joints throughout the body, including the feet. This also allows the metatarsal bone to move outward, forming a bunion.
Unfortunately, bunions that develop during pregnancy do not resolve after delivery. Bunions tend to get worse unless treated.
Custom orthotics may alleviate pain during pregnancy. To monitor symptoms and manage discomfort, you can schedule an appointment with our expert podiatrists at Dr. Bob Baravarian.
Why choose Dr. Bob for your pregnancy foot care?
Dr. Bob Baravarian has extensive experience treating foot problems related to pregnancy, including arch pain, bunions, and other conditions. He also specializes in custom orthotics, treating ingrown toenails, and correcting overpronation. With his care, you can find relief from foot discomfort and maintain a healthy pregnancy.
For a consultation, please call (855) 557-5400 or make an appointment online now.
Dr. Bob Baravarian is conveniently located in Los Angeles, near Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, providing expert foot and ankle care for patients throughout Southern California.
