The tummy area isn't the only sign that a woman is pregnant. Everything is fine until women get to the third trimester and the nose and feet swell up due to fluid accumulation.

While swollen feet can be unbearable, there are certain ways to manage them. This article will serve as a short guide to help pregnant women manage swollen feet in pregnancy. 

What causes swollen feet in pregnancy?

Swollen feet occur due to fluid accumulation around the feet. It's also called pregnancy edema. The hormone, relaxin also plays a role in some body parts swelling up when you're closer to delivery.

Relaxin helps muscles, ligaments, and joints relax. It relaxes the pelvis to open for the passage of the baby. As such, it relaxes the muscles of the feet. Swollen feet often reduce some weeks after delivery.

5 ways to manage swollen feet in pregnancy

• Compression socks: Compression socks increase pressure around the legs and distribute them to the blood vessels and the rest of the body. Compression socks also prevent the formation of new varicose veins which are visible symptoms common in most pregnant women. 

• Sleep: It is often recommended to sleep on your side, preferably on the left side during pregnancy. Sleeping on the side helps to remove pressure from the inferior vena cava. The inferior vena cava is a large vein that carries blood from the legs to the heart.

• Elevate your legs: When sitting at home, try to raise your legs above the heart level. This decreases the pressure on the veins. You can use pillows for comfort when elevating your legs every 15-20 minutes.

• Immerse feet in warm water: Immersing the feet in warm or cold water for 10 minutes a few times a week can help minimise swelling. Ensure the water is moderately cold and not too cold. 

• Wear comfortable shoes: Minimise wearing heels and tight shoes during this period. These shoes force too much pressure on the veins in your feet and cause the formation of varicose veins. Tight shoes can also cause leg pain and headaches during pregnancy. It is recommended to wear low heels, and flats with good arch support. 

Excessive sudden swelling on the face, feet, and hands may be a sign of preeclampsia. This occurs due to high blood pressure. If you notice these changes, consult your doctor immediately. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I massage my legs with hot water

Massaging the feet with hot water might put too much pressure on them. Dip your legs in cold water instead.

1. Can I wear sneakers with swollen feet?

There are comfortable brands of sneakers to wear for swollen feet during pregnancy. Ensure they have a good arch support.

1.  Can I drink uwgu juice for swollen feet?

Ugwu juice does not have any correlation with swollen feet during pregnancy. 

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