How to Prevent Summer Pregnancy Swelling
Posted by JOSHUA HUELLER
As you may or may not know, pregnancy and summertime can have similar effects on your body. No, your belly won’t drastically grow because it’s summer. What can happen is more swelling in your feet and legs.
The heat from those hot summer days can cause what is called edema. As the temperature goes up, blood vessels dilate and gravity pulls blood down into your feet, especially if you’re sitting or standing without motion for extended periods of time.
WHY SWELLING HAPPENS DURING PREGNANCY
Feet, ankle and leg swelling are common pregnancy symptoms. This usually takes place in your 2nd and/or 3rd trimester. This swelling accounts for approximately 25% of pregnancy-related weight gain. For some ladies, swelling can get to the point that they can’t walk or even fit into their shoes - I can remember my sausage toes! During pregnancy your body produces approximately 50% more blood and body fluids to meet the needs of your growing baby. Blood and fluid can pool in your legs causing uncomfortable, painful and inconvenient swelling - but luckily, there are ways to make your legs feel better.
HOW TO COMBAT AND RELIEVE SUMMER PREGNANCY SWELLING
Now if your pregnant in the summer, then you’re definitely going to want to pay attention to the rest of this blog. As mentioned above, summer swelling is already an unpleasant experience, but pair that with being pregnant, and you’re in a whole new ball park of discomfort! You now have two factors contributing to swelling, making it even worse than it was before. Not to mention, pregnant women already have a higher body temperature to begin with. Here are some tips to relieve and prevent discomfort from heat and swelling:
- Staying cool with light non-restricting clothing
- Drinking plenty of water
- Limiting sodium and consumption as salt causes water retention
- Resting with your feet elevated
- Going for a cooling dip in the pool
- But one thing that isn’t as obvious, but can be a lifesaver, is wearing compression socks!
WHY WEAR COMPRESSION SOCKS WHILE PREGNANT
The graduated compression technology in Dr. Segal’s Compression Socks increase blood flow and circulation in your legs. This helps prevent blood and fluid from pooling in your feet. With the aid of compression socks, you’ll be able to combat the swelling, and feel like you again! Dr. Segal’s Compression socks also come with anti-Microbial and silver-ion wash that provide effective odour and stain protection as well as moisture-wicking technology to keep you dry and fresh on those hot and humid summer days.
Are you or anyone you know pregnant during the summer? Compression socks make great gift ideas for newly pregnant moms to be. Shop our collection of Maternity Compression Socks for some stylish and effective summer swell relief.
Other Helpful Resources:
TAGS:
SHARE:
