How to stop your feet from swelling when pregnant - 10 Top Tips
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Get a glass of water, take a seat, put your feet up and let’s discuss the best way to get rid of those swollen feet!
It is completely normal to have some swelling in pregnancy and it’s often worse at the end of the day. Swelling that comes on gradually isn’t necessarily dangerous but can be quite uncomfortable.
If you have swelling that comes on suddenly make sure you see your doctor as it can be a sign of pre-eclampsia.
Avoid sitting or standing for too long. Try and move around a little at least once an hour.
Put Up Your Feet! Elevate your legs and let someone else do all the running around.
Sleep on your left side. Get out that pregnancy pillow and get comfy on your left. This keeps your kidneys happy and can reduce swelling.
Exercise. Any exercise that is safe during pregnancy (check with your doctor) will get your blood flowing.
If you’re not up to whole body exercise, try foot exercises by bending and stretching your feet or rotating them in circles.Make sure your socks aren’t too tight. If your socks leave a mark on your ankles, they may be too tight and could be restricting blood flow.
Get out those comfy shoes. You’re probably not in your highest heels right now but consider adding a soft insole into your shoes for extra support. This could help with back pain as well.
Drink lots of water. Staying hydrated will flush excess sodium from your system and will help reduce swelling.
Limit your salt intake. Step away from the shaker - having too much salt increases everyone’s risk of swelling, pregnant or not.
Eat a balanced diet. Make sure you get a good amount of vitamin C & E.
Try complimentary therapies such as Aromatherapy and Reflexology. Why not get your partner to massage your feet with some Cypress Oil or book yourself in to a Reflexology clinic.
The NHS recommends you call your Doctor, Midwife or Labor Ward straight away if you have any of the following symptoms:
a sudden increase in swelling in your face, hands or feet
a very bad headache
problems with your vision, such as blurring or flashing lights in your eyes
severe pain just below your ribs
vomiting with any of these symptoms
Becki Williams is a Hemel Hempstead Photographer, covering the Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and Buckinghamshire areas.
All photo shoots with Becki WIlliams Photography are relaxed and go at whatever speed you or your baby needs. There is plenty of time for feeding and cuddles and each photo shoot is customised to the colours and themes that you love, resulting in photos you will treasure.
