Varicose veins can be prevented during and after pregnancy

Do invest in compression stockings

Compression stockings will keep the valves working properly so that blood flow is preserved. The stockings should be prescribed by a doctor. They are more expensive than regular stockings that you would buy at a department store, but worth the cost as caring for your veins during pregnancy will help assure recovery after the baby is born.

Do stay active and exercise

Staying active and continuing to exercise during pregnancy keeps your calf muscles in shape and able to move blood back to the central circulation system. Prolonged periods of standing or sitting still of course increase your chances of developing varicose veins.

Do keep legs elevated when possible

Simply elevating legs higher than the heart twice a day for about ½ hour several times daily will prevent symptoms of leg pressure. If vein problems don’t resolve after about 8 weeks following your delivery, a consultation with a vein specialist is recommended.

Do move around

Assuming you’re still going to work during the majority of your pregnancy, it’s important that you don’t stay in one spot all day. Whether your job requires you to sit at your desk or stand for long periods of time, make sure to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day to keep your blood flowing.

Do wait 6 months before having a removal procedure

Unless the veins are causing you abnormal pains, it’s best to wait about 6 months after you give birth before seeking any serious treatment for them. Varicose and spider veins that didn’t exist before pregnancy typically go away afterwards, so as your body is recovering from childbirth and returning to its normal self, try to be patient and allow the veins to go away on their own if possible.

Do not ignore your diet

Aside from the obvious things that you’re supposed to skip out on during pregnancy like sushi and alcohol, you still need to be mindful of everything else that goes into your body. Your diet should be low in salt and sugar, and high in fluids – especially water. This will help aid the increased volume of blood flow that is carrying oxygen to both you and your baby.

Do not wear constricting clothes

Loose fitting, comfortable clothes are preferred. It is especially important that clothes aren’t constricting in the waist, groin and lower stomach areas. This is a big reason why investing in maternity jeans is very important. Some women can still manage to fit into their regular jeans during pregnancy, but this is damaging their circulation whether or not they realize it.

Do not forget to take care of yourself

The simplest way to avoid developing varicose veins during pregnancy or to increase the chances of your veins naturally going away after childbirth is to take care of your body from the inside out. Make sure you are keeping all of your important doctor’s visits, and see a vein specialist if you think your varicose veins are giving you severe pain or if they don’t go away shortly after you have your baby.

Do not cross your legs or ankles when sitting

While it’s only a myth that crossing your legs or ankles can actually cause varicose veins, these actions do affect your circulation. During pregnancy, you’re already at a higher risk for developing varicose veins, so if you’re trying to prevent them this is just another measure you can make that might help make a difference.

Do not feel badly about your appearance

Varicose veins are just one of the many bodily changes that women experience during pregnancy, which sometime add up and cause women to feel down about their physical appearances. Just remember that nobody is focusing on your veins or the exact number of pounds you gained; what they are focusing on is making sure you and the baby are both happy and healthy.