Pregnancy and Varicose Veins

Pregnancy and Varicose Veins

Are you expecting? Congratulations! Pregnancy is one of the most exciting times in your life. Though as you await the arrival of your bundle of joy you may be experiencing some less than joyful symptoms. Just like morning sickness and swelling feet, varicose veins can be caused by pregnancy. If you are experiencing issues with varicose veins or simply want to stay on top of your symptoms, you’re in the right place.

In this article we will discuss what varicose veins are, how they are caused and what you can do to prevent or treat them during pregnancy. You don’t need to be afraid of varicose veins, get all you need to know to prevent and treat varicose veins here.

What Are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are veins that are damaged and no longer working to effectively return blood back to the heart. The inability to return blood results in blood pooling in the vein. This in turn causes the veins to twist and bulge resulting in the highly visible veins that sometimes protrude from the skin.

Though varicose veins can be unsightly they are most often not dangerous. Many people will report that varicose veins cause them discomfort or swelling and a visible appearance on their legs. In cases of severe varicose veins some people may experience negative symptoms including bleeding, leg ulcers or even deep vein thrombosis. In our previous article “Are Varicose Veins Dangerous” we detail what you should know about possible symptoms of varicose veins.

How Are They Caused?

Varicose veins occur when the veins in the leg are damaged. This is the result of excessive pressure on the veins. Unlike spider veins varicose veins are not the result of short-term excessive pressure (like pushing during labour) but instead develop over time.

Varicose veins are not caused by only one thing alone. There are many factors that can contribute to the development of varicose veins, being pregnant is one of them. But being pregnant does not mean that you will certainly develop varicose veins. Genetics and lifestyle may affect the development of varicose veins. Always consider the bigger picture when considering if you are at risk of developing varicose veins.

How Can I Prevent Them?

There is no definitive way to prevent varicose veins during pregnancy. Genetics and lifestyle play a role in varicose vein development and being pregnant adds an additional risk factor. Being overweight or spending too much time on your feet can also contribute to their development.

In order to help prevent varicose veins during pregnancy you could consider the following;

  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle – you shouldn’t try to lose weight during pregnancy but by eating well and maintaining a healthy lifestyle you may be able to reduce your risk of developing varicose veins.
  • Wear compression stockings – compression stocking can help aid the body to return blood to the heart. By giving your body a boost in this process you may be able to either help prevent varicose veins or alive discomfort from varicose veins in pregnancy.

Will They Go Away After Pregnancy?

If you develop varicose veins in pregnancy you may or may not have them disappear after. Depending on the severity of the damage to your veins they may stick around. There is no telling ahead of time how your body will react to pregnancy. Try to remember that these veins are a small part of bringing your beautiful baby into the world. But if your veins don’t go away and you would rather they not be present, there are treatments such as laser vein removal available.

How Can I Get Rid of Them?

Many people do not love the appearance of varicose veins. Others find that their varicose veins cause them discomfort or pain. Regardless of which category you fall under, there are solutions to help rid you of your varicose veins. The type of procedure you choose will depend on the severity of your veins. Options for varicose vein removal include;

  • Laser vein removal
  • Sclerotherapy
  • High ligation and vein stripping
  • Endoscopic vein surgery

See our previous article “How to Get Rid of Spider Veins and Varicose Veins” for more information on these procedures.

Get Help Today

At our Body Clinic we treat patients looking to look and feel their best. If you have concerns about your varicose veins or would like to learn more about laser vein removal, get in touch. We have the skills and knowledge to assist you in choosing the right procedure for you. There is no need to suffer through painful and visible varicose veins alone. We can help you get results to alleviate your varicose vein symptoms.

Author: Alin Gharibian

With over fifteen years of experience, Alin has earned her reputation as a highly respected Certificated Medical Aesthetician. Her welcoming personality, strong dedication to her clients continue to support her growth in this field. Alin strongly believes that continuous education and ongoing training is fundamental in offering her clients with the most advanced technologies and innovative treatments. Her annual attendance at world seminars, including the Anti-Aging World Seminars and Management Programs, have kept her at the forefront of the industry’s latest trends and innovative new technologies.