Retaining fluid during pregnancy

Swollen ankles, feet and fingers in pregnancy

It's normal to get some swelling in pregnancy, particularly in your legs, ankles, feet and fingers.

It's often worse at the end of the day and further into your pregnancy.

Swelling that comes on gradually is not usually harmful to you or your baby, but it can be uncomfortable.

A sudden increase in swelling can be a sign of pre-eclampsia, a condition that needs to be monitored as soon as possible.

Non-urgent advice: Call your midwife, GP or labour ward immediately if you have:

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

These could be symptoms of pre-eclampsia, which can lead to serious complications if it's not monitored and treated.

Normal pregnancy swelling

Swelling is caused by your body holding more water than usual when you're pregnant.

Throughout the day the extra water tends to gather in the lowest parts of the body, especially if the weather is hot or you have been standing a lot.

The pressure of your growing womb can also affect the blood flow in your legs. This can cause fluid to build up in your legs, ankles and feet.

What can help to reduce swelling

Try to:

avoid standing for long periods
wear comfortable shoes and socks – avoid tight straps or anything that might pinch if your feet swell
try to rest with your feet up as much as you can
drink plenty of water – this helps your body get rid of excess water
exercise – try to take regular walks during the day or doing foot exercises

Foot exercises

You can do foot exercises sitting or standing. They improve blood circulation, reduce swelling in the ankles, and prevent cramp in the calf muscles:

bend and stretch your foot up and down 30 times
rotate each foot in a circle 8 times one way and 8 times the other way

Get more tips on exercising in pregnancy.

Page last reviewed: 10 March 2021
Next review due: 10 March 2024

5 Ways to Reduce Pregnancy Puffiness and Swelling

Category: Pregnancy

March 26, 2019

If you have already had one child, then you know the drill. Pregnancy puffiness and swelling are all part of the deal that comes with bringing new life into the world. With all the joys of waiting for your baby to arrive, including the so-called glow, you also experience the annoying puffiness and swelling.

If you are pregnant and uncomfortable, consider these 5 ways to reduce said pregnancy puffiness and swelling.

Why Does Pregnancy Cause Fluid Retention?

The typical places that become puffy and swollen are the ankles, feet, legs, fingers, and even the face. Fluid retention is annoying, to be sure, but it’s a necessary evil. Extra fluid builds up during pregnancy as hormones change, which helps to soften the body so it can more easily expand as the baby and uterus grow.

This normal swelling is known as edema and it begins about halfway through pregnancy with the worst symptoms in the third trimester.

Reduce Pregnancy Puffiness and Swelling by Eating Right

Yes, you hear this all the time, but it is especially important when pregnant. So, what exactly does “eating right” mean?

Reducing your salt (sodium) intake will go a long way to keep down the swelling. Be especially conscientious about eliminating prepackaged foods. It may seem easy to grab them when fixing a quick meal, but they are loaded with salt, fat, and sugar. Canned foods, snacks, chips, and luncheon meats should be off the menu during pregnancy. Sorry, ladies.

It is also recommended to avoid caffeine and carbonated drinks as they tend to cause water retention.

Try to eat more lean proteins like fish, poultry, turkey, or beef. You can also pair these proteins with lots of fresh or frozen vegetables.

Increase your potassium by eating bananas, sweet potatoes, avocado, and kidney beans. Potassium helps to reduce swelling by keeping your body chemically balanced.

Stay Hydrated

Choose healthy and natural diuretic foods when the urge to snack hits you. It may seem counterintuitive, but staying hydrated is an easy way to keep fluids moving through the kidneys and out of the body.

Cranberry juice, asparagus, celery, artichoke, carrots, watermelon, cabbage, apple cider vinegar, and lemons are all natural diuretics.

Of course drink water, the best of all your hydration options.

Keep Your Blood Flowing

Regular and simple exercise like swimming and walking can help with fluid retention. Standing in water for 20 minutes will decrease swelling.

Ditch your heels for now and wear comfortable shoes, and don’t stand on your feet for long periods of time without moving. Use orthotic inserts in your shoes to reduce leg and lower back pain, and avoid crossing your legs while pregnant as it restricts blood flow.

Other tips include sleeping on your left side to encourage blood to return to the heart, and elevating your legs whenever possible. Swelling gets worse at the end of the day so take a few minutes out of your busy schedule to put some pillows under your legs and relax. You deserve it.

Stay Cool Whenever Possible

Being pregnant during the summer heat makes for a tough couple of months. The heat will help everything to “balloon.” Rings that fit – won’t any more. Even your shoes will get tight. The best remedy is to stay indoors if possible and remain cool.

Feel free to use cold compresses and cool towels.

Reduce Pregnancy Puffiness and Swelling with Massage

Massage is truly the trifecta of relief for a puffy pregnant lady. It will make improvements in your circulation as it aids in blood flow to the heart. In addition, it helps to excrete water and impurities through the kidneys.

Choose a soothing oil you like. Cypress, chamomile, or lavender oil are all very relaxing and calming. Find a professional masseuse or sweet talk your spouse into giving you regular massages to relieve your discomfort throughout pregnancy.

Make an appointment to see one of our expert obstetricians if you have concerns about pregnancy puffiness and swelling, or if your face becomes excessively swollen.

Edema during pregnancy | Nutriclub

What you need to know about edema: why they appear, how to deal with them, how to distinguish ordinary physiological edema from a symptom of a serious illness

It is believed that edema inevitably accompanies the pregnancy of most women - you just need to endure their unaesthetic appearance. However, swelling can be a signal of health problems and pose a danger to both the expectant mother and the development of the fetus. Nutriclub understands when to worry if you have swelling. nine0003

Edema - excessive accumulation of fluid in the interstitial space - occurs quite often in pregnant women. Swelling can occur at any time and on different parts of the body.
Edema on the face (especially bags under the eyes and severe swelling of the eyelids) are especially noticeable and cause maximum dissatisfaction, because they directly affect the appearance.
Very often, pregnant women have swollen legs, especially after a long walk. That is why it is so important to get comfortable shoes for the entire period of pregnancy. nine0008
Hands tend to swell in women who work at a computer or do needlework. Rings begin to press, fingers look like “sausages”. In such cases, you need to temporarily abandon jewelry.
Pregnant women often mistake swelling of the nasal mucosa for a runny nose or allergies. The latter is more likely because allergic reactions tend to get worse during pregnancy. Also in pregnant women, due to changes in hormonal levels, a condition called rhinitis of pregnancy can develop, which is accompanied by severe nasal congestion. It is better to take tests and be sure to discuss the situation with a doctor who will prescribe a drug that is allowed during pregnancy. Ignoring nasal congestion is not recommended - breathing problems in the mother can make it difficult for oxygen to reach the child. nine0008

All these edemas can be both physiological and pathological.

Physiological edema of pregnant women

Physiological usually do not cause complications. They are explained by natural changes in the body of the expectant mother: the uterus puts pressure on neighboring organs, slowing down blood circulation, and sodium accumulates in the blood - it slows down the excretion of fluid from the body. At the same time, during pregnancy, the total amount of fluid circulating throughout the body almost doubles (part of it is contained in the amniotic fluid and placenta). nine0003

At the same time, a woman's hormonal background changes, which may be the cause of the legendary “salty” craving, which, in turn, provokes thirst and excessive fluid intake.

Summer heat or stuffiness in transport and premises, physical overload also affects health and appearance.

Physiological edema is considered natural at any stage of pregnancy - and does not pose a threat to the woman's health.

But at the first sign of swelling, you should definitely contact your obstetrician-gynecologist. The doctor will prescribe the necessary examinations and tests to exclude pathological edema, indicating health problems and complications of pregnancy. nine0003

Pathological edema during pregnancy

Pathological edema in the early stages may signal hypothyroidism - a condition in which there is a lack of thyroid hormones in the body. Doctors try to identify the disease before the appearance of swelling - pregnant women with a deficiency or excess body weight, with severe toxicosis, a blood test for thyroid hormones is prescribed. If the results are not normal, treatment is prescribed.

Also, starting from the first trimester, edema may appear due to problems with the kidneys. It is very important to take a urine test every two weeks, as recommended in the antenatal clinic. Erythrocytes, high leukocytes, a protein that should not be in the urine - a reason for referral to a urologist and ultrasound of the kidneys. It is important to exclude an infection in the kidneys, and if it is diagnosed, it should be treated qualitatively. Otherwise, premature obstructed labor or the birth of a child with a low weight are possible. nine0003

Starting from the 20th week, swelling may indicate varicose veins. Circulatory disturbance due to uterine pressure leads to the formation of "knots" and pain in the legs. If you suspect varicose veins, you will be referred to a phlebologist who will give the necessary recommendations.

Edema also accompanies heart failure, which is considered a serious complication of pregnancy. In this case, the appearance of edema is preceded by shortness of breath and cyanosis of the mucous membranes.

However, most often, pathological swelling indicates late toxicosis - gestosis. This is a problem in the third trimester of pregnancy, but the first signs can begin to appear between the 18th and 20th weeks. Preeclampsia almost always requires the help of a doctor and the presence of a pregnant woman in a hospital. nine0003

What is gestosis and why is it dangerous?

However, gestosis, in addition to edema, has other symptoms: high blood pressure, protein in the sea (it is normally absent), nausea, vomiting, headaches, convulsions, fever, drowsiness, or, conversely, severe arousal.

There are four degrees of preeclampsia. The first degree is known as dropsy of pregnant women, it is mainly expressed in edema. The second degree is edema, protein in the urine, a violation of pressure. The third degree of preeclampsia is called preeclampsia. It is characterized by a decrease in cerebral circulation and even hemorrhage. In the most severe, fourth stage of the disease, convulsions (eclampsia) are observed. A pregnant woman may have a stroke or placental abruption. nine0003

Thus, even if everyone around them says that edema is completely natural, and they do not cause discomfort to the pregnant woman herself, it is very important to inform the doctor about the first appearance of swelling - precisely in order to make sure that the edema is physiological, and not pathological, and no complications for the development of the fetus and the process of childbirth will not entail.

When should a pregnant woman see a doctor immediately?

The following problems can be considered the reason for an urgent visit to a doctor:

swelling visible already in the morning, immediately after getting up;
edema accompanied by high blood pressure;
edema becomes very severe: it is impossible to clench the hand into a fist, shoes are painful and uncomfortable to wear, it is difficult to open the eyes due to swelling;
regular shortness of breath, palpitations;
headaches do not go away for several days;
regularly experience nausea and vomiting after the 12th week;
Urges for small needs are rare and are accompanied by the release of urine of a dark color; nine0008
there are pains in the upper part of the abdomen;
painful convulsions appear;

What helps with swelling during pregnancy?

If, according to the results of examination and analysis, it is established that the edema is physiological, it is possible to get rid of them (or at least reduce them) using the following methods.

Avoid fried, smoked, spicy, pickled and sweet foods. Steam or bake, eat fruits and vegetables regularly. nine0008
The use of salt should be limited - it contains sodium, it is he who retains fluid in the body.
Many advise to limit the use of water, even in the form of broth. In fact, it threatens with dehydration. It is better to drink plain water in small sips - and consume most of the daily allowance of one and a half to two liters in the morning. Soda should be excluded.
It is contraindicated to stay in heat or stuffy rooms for a long time.
On the recommendation of a doctor, you can wear special compression underwear, while giving up tight tights, uncomfortable shoes and heels. nine0008
Sleep at least 8-10 hours. It is also recommended to lie down every day for 15-20 minutes with legs raised up, do foot massage and foot baths with sea salt.

When using any materials from the site nutriclub.ru, a link to the site is required.

How much water a pregnant woman should drink

We are sharing with you the advice of Lesya Sytnyk, a nutritionist at the Leleka maternity hospital, on drinking water during pregnancy.

Enough is how much?

Definitely, during pregnancy there is a need for additional fluid intake. Indeed, at this time, the volume of blood of the pregnant woman increases, there is a continuous production of amniotic fluid, the vital activity of the child is ensured, fluid accumulates in organs and tissues. nine0003

Sufficient water regime means that the body receives such an amount of fluid that is necessary for the mother and her unborn child. So, this question is individual and depends on many factors, in particular age, body weight, gestational age, level of physical activity, climatic conditions, health status, diet.

If there is a shortage of water in the body, an unpleasant condition occurs, which is called dehydration (dehydration). When dehydrated, the kidneys try to retain water in the body, so the urine becomes concentrated, rich in color, reminiscent of apple juice. This is a sign that you need to drink more fluids. nine0003

Water deficiency in the body can be caused by insufficient fluid intake, impaired kidney function or increased fluid loss (diarrhea, frequent urination, vomiting, etc.) Pay attention to symptoms such as dry mouth and nose, liquid urination (less than 1 time at 2-3 hours), dark urine, as well as headache, dizziness, constipation, changes in blood pressure, weakness, increased anxiety.

Maintaining fluid balance in the body is good for health, by doing this we provide cooling, hydration, elimination of toxins, reduce the risk of constipation and urinary tract infections, improve immune function, control appetite, improve taste sensations, respectively, and digestion, reduce blood viscosity. Water restrictions are prescribed by a doctor for medical reasons. nine0003

Recommended norms

Part of the water is produced by the body itself, part is consumed from food and clean water and drinks. The average consumption of water should be at the level of 8 glasses per day. The Institute of Medicine recommends that pregnant women consume only 3 liters of water per day. About 22% of this fluid comes from moisture in foods consumed throughout the day, the other 2.3 liters (about 10 cups) should come from drinking water and decaffeinated drinks. It's easier to drink more flavored water, so try adding a slice of lemon, lime or frozen strawberries, blackberries, pomegranate juice, ginger, mint leaves, basil to the water. nine0003

The body does not always report in time that it lacks fluid. You need to drink water before you start to feel thirsty. If you are very thirsty, first you need to quench your thirst, and then gradually drink two more glasses of water. In hot weather, you should drink one or two glasses of water when leaving the house, have liquid with you and replenish the water level in the body when returning home.

Sometimes, when a pregnant mother consumes a lot of salt, fluid retention occurs in the body and, as a result, edema appears. The additional intake of water allows you to flush out excess salt from the body and reduce swelling. As a nice bonus, we get weight loss and good health. Even during a healthy pregnancy, mild swelling can occur. nine0003

Water safety

It is important to remember not only the quantity but also the quality of water. Drinking water must comply with all sanitary and hygienic standards and requirements. The presence of foreign impurities in water (mercury, lead, arsenic, nitrates, BPA) causes concern. Pathogenic microorganisms can also enter the water. To make sure the water is safe enough, you can have your water tested by a public or private laboratory. Bottled water should be stored in a dark, cool place at a temperature of 5 to 20 C. An open bottle of water should be stored in the refrigerator. nine0003

On vacation, be especially careful to prevent intestinal infections. For washing dishes and hands, use filtered and boiled water and ensure a supply of drinking water. Avoid unpasteurized dairy products and fruit/vegetable juices, smoothies, unpasteurized frozen juices, and ice cream.

To drink or not to drink?

Herbal teas. The action of plants can have a cumulative effect and affect health, be the cause of allergic reactions. Before taking such teas, it is better to consult a doctor. nine0003

Mineral waters

Mineral waters have a healing effect. Depending on mineralization (total salt content, g/l), mineral waters are divided into groups: low-mineralized - less than 1 g/l, low-mineralized - from 1 to 5 g/l, medium mineralization - from 5 to 15 g/l, highly mineralized - from 15 to 35 g / l, brine - more than 35 g / l.

Medium and highly mineralized water during pregnancy is allowed to drink in certain dosages on the recommendation of a doctor, taking into account contraindications. Assign water to reduce the manifestations of toxicosis, heartburn, constipation. Mineral waters are a source of trace elements such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, silicon, fluorine, sulfur, etc. The daily norm of medicinal waters can be from 1 tablespoon to 1-2 glasses. nine0003

Sports and water

During sports, fluid requirements exceed the average recommended limits. Water makes up 80% of human blood, muscles are 70% water. Be sure to discuss the issue of an adequate water regime when playing sports during pregnancy with a trainer. Before training, an hour before the start of the lesson, do not forget to drink water and drink water in small sips during class, this will be a good prevention of overwork and overheating. In addition to restoring water balance, you need to replenish lost electrolytes and energy. nine0003

Practical tips

Hot summer weather increases the risk of dehydration. To maintain good health and well-being, we suggest using simple tips:

1. Cook more liquid dishes (cold soups, liquid sauces, fruit juices, fruit drinks based on berries, lemonade), eat vegetables, fruits containing a lot of water: watermelon, melon, pear, strawberry, orange, zucchini, cucumber, etc.

2. Avoid sugary drinks