Varicose Veins & Pregnancy

Pregnancy Plus

As if a woman doesn't have enough to contend with just being pregnant and experiencing all of the attendant hormonal changes she goes through, frequently the happy event of pregnancy is accented with the presence of varicose veins literally popping up all over the lower body.  As a matter of fact, because hemorrhoids and varicose veins are frequently part of pregnancy, they could almost be considered symptoms rather than complications.

When a woman becomes pregnant there is an increase in the levels of progesterone, a hormone which encourages the relaxation of vein walls allowing for greater blood flow through the veins.  The increase in the volume of blood flowing through the veins of a pregnant woman increases the opportunities for a variety of manifestations of varicose veins.  Three types, in particular, seem to be common occurrences during pregnancy.

Sometimes It's Hard To Sit...

Hemorrhoids - varicose veins in the anus - occur frequently in pregnant women as a result of uterine pressure on the veins as the womb enlarges with the growth of the baby.  The blood vessels in the anus and legs are enlarged in the process which contributes to hemorrhoids.  Bowel straining and constipation increase the chance of hemorrhoids.   Anal bleeding, itchiness in the anus, pain during bowel movements and lumps near the anus which are tender to touch are all symptoms of hemorrhoids.  Usually a sitz bath of ten to twenty minutes several times during the day will deliver much needed relief.  Before using any type of medication, the doctor should be consulted.

My Legs Hurt

The same source of pressure on the veins during pregnancy can result in varicose veins on the legs and in the groin area.  Varicose veins may develop on the backs, insides and calves of the legs.  Normally they are nothing more than a nuisance - and definitely not pretty to look at - however, they commonly go away in the weeks following the birth of the baby.  If they are painful, see your physician.

Not There Too!

Another type of varicose vein common to pregnancy is the vulvar varicose vein.  The large amount of blood flowing in the pelvic region can sometimes result in swelling and the creation of vulvar varicose veins.  A "V" brace support is worn like underwear and will give extra support to reduce the pressure on the veins and reduce discomfort.  These veins often disappear after the birth of the baby.

Simple things like exercise, drinking plenty of water, a high fiber diet and practicing Kegel exercises can reduce the discomfort of varicose veins during pregnancy.