Picture this: you’re walking through the mall, your favorite place for a little retail therapy.
You catch a glimpse of yourself in a store window and notice those swollen, twisted veins on your legs.
Ah, the joys of pregnancy!
As if waddling like a penguin and craving pickles and ice cream at 2 a.m. weren’t enough, now you’ve got these bluish-purple ropes making a surprise appearance.
Welcome to the glamorous world of varicose veins!
But fret not; we’re here to help!
We sat down with pharmacist Nazatul Amira Hamzah from Primabumi Sdn Bhd to look into ways an expecting mummy can navigate her way through varicose veins during pregnancy.
Nazatul is a qualified pharmacist with 10 years of experience in pharmacy practice involving both hospital and community settings.
She currently holds the position of Pharmacist and Key Account Manager at a renowned pharmaceutical company in Kuala Lumpur.
What Are Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are essentially veins that have become enlarged and twisted.
This can happen because of increased blood pressure inside your veins.
During pregnancy, the volume of blood in your body increases to support both you and your growing baby.
While this is great for your baby, it can put extra pressure on your veins, especially those in your legs.
What Causes Varicose Veins During Pregnancy?
Varicose veins during pregnancy are caused by several changes in your body.
As your baby grows, your uterus puts pressure on the veins in your lower body, causing them to swell.
Hormonal changes relax your blood vessels, which slows blood flow and leads to swelling in your legs and pelvis.
Plus, your body’s increased blood volume to support your baby makes these veins more noticeable.
Where Do Varicose Veins Appear?
Varicose veins often show up in a few common places.
You might notice them on the inside of your legs, the back of your calves, or around your ankles.
They can also appear in more sensitive areas like the genital region and even the rectum.
Hemorrhoids, which are quite common during pregnancy, are actually a type of varicose vein.
It can be a bit unsettling to see these changes, but remember, it’s all part of your body’s way of supporting your growing baby.
You’re doing wonderfully mummy, and these changes are just temporary.
Are Varicose Veins Harmful?
While varicose veins are rarely dangerous, their unsightly appearance can be distressing for expectant mothers.
In addition to their appearance, some women may experience discomfort such as pain, swelling, redness, and itchiness.
What Medications Should I Consume to Treat Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins are typically harmless and tend to fade away on their own within about 12 weeks after delivery, so you usually won’t need medication.
However, if you’re experiencing significant pain or discomfort from them, or if they don’t seem to improve after 12 weeks postpartum, it’s a good idea to reach out to your doctor.
They can provide you with guidance and support to help you through this.
How Can I Prevent Varicose Veins?
Varicose veins often run in families, so they’re not something you can easily prevent.
Still, there are several practical steps expecting mummies can take to manage them and feel more comfortable:
- Raise Your Feet Frequently: This helps improve circulation and reduce pressure.
- Avoid Crossing Your Legs: When sitting, try to keep your legs uncrossed to promote better blood flow.
- Take Frequent Breaks: If you need to stand or sit for a long time, make sure to move around and stretch regularly.
- Exercise Daily: Upon your doctors approval, engage in low-impact exercises like walking or swimming to keep your blood flowing smoothly.
- Sleep on Your Left Side: This can ease the strain on the right side of your body, improving circulation.
- Wear Supportive Maternity Hosiery: These special stockings help with blood flow by applying more pressure at the ankle and less further up. Avoid knee-high boots or tight socks that could pinch and restrict circulation.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: As your baby grows, your weight will increase, putting extra pressure on your legs. A balanced diet can help you manage your weight and ease some of the pressure.
By following these tips, mummies can stay more comfortable and confident throughout your pregnancy.
Are There Natural Remedies for Varicose Veins?
There are claims that some herbal supplements might help with varicose veins.
For example, bioflavonoids, ginkgo biloba, rosehip, and grapeseed extracts are often mentioned.
These supplements are thought to support vein health and improve circulation.
However, it’s important to approach these remedies with caution.
The evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited, and there isn’t enough data to confirm their safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Since your health and your baby’s wellbeing are top priorities, it’s always best to consult with your doctor before starting any new medicine or supplement.
They can provide you with personalised advice and ensure that any treatments you consider are safe for you and your baby.
Embrace the Adventure, Mummies!
So, mummies, don’t let these pesky veins dampen your spirits.
While varicose veins can be a frustrating part of pregnancy, they’re usually harmless and temporary.
Remember, your body is working hard to bring a new life into the world, and these changes are just part of the journey.
Embrace the experience, take care of yourself, and reach out for support when you need it.
Soon enough, you’ll be looking back on this time with a smile, holding your little one and celebrating all the incredible things you’ve accomplished.
Source: Nazatul Amira Hamzah, Pharmacist at Primabumi Sdn Bhd
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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