Swollen feet during pregnancy: Why it happens and how to ease the discomfort

During pregnancy, many physical changes occur as the body adapts to support the growing baby. Swelling in the feet and ankles is a common concern, particularly in the later stages. Anaesthesiologist and interventional pain medicine physician Dr Kunal Sood explained this in an Instagram video. Swelling, medically called oedema, occurs due to fluid buildup in the lower limbs.

As the body holds more blood and fluids for the baby, hormones relax blood vessels and the uterus slows blood return from the legs, leading to fluid pooling in the feet, especially by day's end. While temporary and worsened throughout the day, it can still cause discomfort. Dr Sood recommended several habits to help manage this, including elevating legs while resting, wearing compression socks earlier in the day, walking gently to improve circulation, staying hydrated, limiting salt and processed foods, and wearing supportive footwear.

Dr Gaana Sreenivas, an obstetrician and gynaecologist, explained that pregnant women often experience swelling, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to increased blood volume and fluid production. The enlarging uterus puts pressure on veins, slowing circulation and causing fluid to accumulate in the legs. Hormonal changes also contribute to fluid leakage.

While mild swelling is normal, especially later in pregnancy or after standing, sudden or severe swelling, particularly in the face, hands, or eyes, requires medical attention. Symptoms like severe headache, blurred vision, upper abdominal pain, high blood pressure, or swelling in one leg may indicate preeclampsia or a blood clot, warranting immediate evaluation by a healthcare provider.