Pregnancy is a joyous time — but it can bring less-than-joyous changes to your body. If you’re one of the many expectant mothers dealing with pregnancy varicose veins, you know how uncomfortable they can be. At Vein Specialists of Geneva, our elite vascular specialist, Dr. Kevin P. Kern understands your frustrations.
Many of our patients come to our Geneva office during pregnancy, feeling helpless and frustrated about their large and uncomfortable varicose veins. We’re passionate about helping you find relief. Drawing upon 25 years of experience as a vascular disease specialist and educator, Dr. Kern uses personalized strategies to address chronic vein problems and restore vibrant health. Read on to discover why varicose veins develop during pregnancy and how to get comfortable.
Why Do Varicose Veins Develop During Pregnancy?
Varicose veins affect as many as 7 in 10 pregnant moms. These bulging, twisted, and ropy-looking veins usually appear on your legs. Many women find them uncomfortable, particularly as their pregnancy moves into the second and third trimesters. During pregnancy, several factors combine to cause varicose veins.
- Blood volume increase: The amount of blood in your body increases by about 50% during pregnancy. This happens because you need more blood to nourish your baby and placenta.
- Progesterone spike: Progesterone spikes during early pregnancy and remains elevated throughout. It causes vein walls to relax and can impede vein valve function. This can lead to blood traveling through veins sluggishly and may result in blood pooling in your veins.
- Your growing baby: Your baby’s continued growth during pregnancy adds extra pressure in your abdomen and pelvis, increasing the risk of varicose veins.
So, you know why they happen, but what can you do about them? Here are our tips.
Tips For Getting Comfortable
Many of the advanced vein treatment strategies that we normally prescribe aren’t right for pregnant women. But you can still ease discomfort while staying safe. Dr. Kern may recommend the following methods to help alleviate vein discomfort.
- Low-impact exercise like walking or swimming
- Wear compression stockings
- Avoid prolonged sitting and standing
- Elevate your legs to help blood return to your heart
- Sleep on your left side to ease uterine pressure
After you have your baby, your veins may go away. However, if they persist, Dr. Kern can treat them using innovative varicose vein treatments around 6-12 months after you welcome your little one.
Help With Pregnancy Varicose Veins in Geneva, IL
If varicose veins make your pregnancy uncomfortable, we’re here to help. There’s no reason to suffer, so call us today at 630-425-0800 to schedule an appointment.
