Swelling in the Hands and Feet during Pregnancy

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KEY POINTS

• Most women have at least some swelling of their ankles and feet during pregnancy.
• Try staying off your feet and lying on your left side as much as possible when you take breaks. Support hose designed for pregnant women may help also.
• If swelling starts suddenly, if you have swelling in your face, or if you have severe headaches or sudden vision changes, call your healthcare provider right away.

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What is swelling during pregnancy?

Swelling is very common during pregnancy. Most women have at least some swelling of their ankles and feet by the time they reach their due date. Some women may have swelling in their hands or face, too.

Swelling may make it hard to wear shoes if the swelling in your feet gets too bad. Sometimes a lot of swelling, or swelling that happens suddenly, can be a sign of a problem in the pregnancy.

What is the cause?

During pregnancy, the amount of fluid in your body increases. This is needed to help your baby grow. Pregnancy also causes increased blood flow and pressure on your veins from your growing uterus. The increased blood flow and fluid buildup can cause swelling in your hands and feet.

Your body also produces a hormone called relaxin during pregnancy. This hormone relaxes your ligaments, which are strong bands of tissue that connect one bone to another to form the joints. When the ligaments in your feet relax, the bones can spread out and make your shoes feel tighter.

How can I take care of myself?

If you have swelling, here are some suggestions:

• Leg swelling can be helped by trying to stay off your feet as much as possible. If you have to stand, take regular breaks. Prop up your feet or lie down on your left side. Avoid lying on your back. This will help your circulation and may keep the swelling from getting worse.
• Support hose designed for pregnant women may help keep the swelling from getting too bad in your legs. Avoid stockings with elastic bands that can be tight on your waist or legs.
• Try soaking in a tub of warm water. You should keep the water temperature below 100 degrees Fahrenheit, or 37.8 degrees Celsius.

What should I watch out for?

If swelling starts suddenly, or you have so much swelling in your hands that you cannot wear your rings, or you notice swelling in your face, or if you have severe headaches or sudden vision changes, call your healthcare provider right away. It may be a sign of preeclampsia, which can cause serious problems for you and your baby.