Pregnancy and Swollen Legs

During the nine months of pregnancy, every day is a journey of discovery and transformation, in which the expectant mother experiences the wonder of life growing inside her.

However, along with this joy, mild natural and physiological discomforts may appear, which are an integral part of the motherhood journey.

Quite common is leg swelling, which brings with it fatigue and tiredness. But how can this problem be addressed?

Why do legs swell during pregnancy?

Pregnancy and swollen legs are directly linked to the changes in the body and hormones that accompany the new mother throughout the 40 weeks.

The main causes are:

• the increase in belly size

  The more the baby grows, the more weight tends to increase—nothing new! However, body mass can affect the level of swelling in the lower limbs.

• Hormonal changes

  During the first three months of pregnancy, hormone levels change with an exponential increase in progesterone, causing venous congestion.

• Increased blood flow to the uterus

  The baby’s growth involves the dilation of the uterus, which compresses the blood vessels in the legs, making venous return more difficult.

• Changes in metabolism

  Metabolic changes may be the cause of weight gain, but they may also lead to reduced kidney function, which can promote the onset of swelling and water retention.

However, swollen legs during pregnancy can be caused not only by internal conditions, but also by external factors or lifestyle habits.

For example, hot weather, spending long hours standing, or wearing unsuitable shoes can contribute to leg swelling during pregnancy.

Remedies for swollen legs during pregnancy

To help expectant mothers along this journey, there are many do-it-yourself solutions to relieve heaviness and leg swelling during pregnancy.

These homemade solutions can improve mobility and reduce discomfort associated with swelling, which can sometimes be so bothersome as to become painful.

Among the main remedies to alleviate or resolve the problem of swollen legs during pregnancy, we find:

• keeping your legs elevated during free moments.

  It’s well known that keeping your legs raised is always a good idea and a great daily practice to support circulation! During pregnancy, this routine becomes essential and a great support to help swollen legs find relief and relaxation. A pillow under the legs becomes a good friend to use both during the day and at night!

• Physical activity.

  With prior consultation and approval from your gynecologist and primary care physician, exercise remains a fundamental element to keep the body active and receive all the benefits it brings. Training allows our heart to pump blood faster, promoting venous return and helping the legs feel less heavy!

• Relaxation with lymphatic drainage massages.

  What better opportunity to be pampered with a leg massage? Applying a draining cream or products specifically designed for water retention is essential for working on the lymphatic system, allowing circulation and retained fluids to be drained. Eliminating excess water helps achieve lighter legs!

• Healthy and balanced nutrition.

  Nutrition has always been the foundation of physical well-being. During pregnancy, having a balanced diet can be essential to reduce and limit the appearance of leg swelling. Some foods such as sugar and fats can promote the development of this condition; replacing them with healthy foods helps regulate intestinal function!

Cosmetics during pregnancy

Using cosmetics can be a valuable support in relieving the sensation of heavy legs.

In addition to selecting suitable products, avoiding ingredients such as retinol, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, and aluminum chloride during pregnancy, it is crucial to pay attention to proper application to achieve effective results.

To obtain maximum benefits from the cream or draining gel, it is essential to apply them with massages using circular movements, starting from the bottom and moving upward to stimulate the lymph nodes.

The main goal is to activate lymphatic circulation, helping to reduce leg swelling and create a sensation of lightness and well-being.

Other alternative products that can be used include: Pink Dead Sea salts, extra-draining mud gel, and draining gel wraps, where it is recommended to use only the wraps and not the sample of Drena Slim that is included!

The Unique Form has thought of mothers in the creation of its products, focusing on fragrance-free cosmetics with ingredients suitable for pregnancy!

P.S. Check the description of each individual product to verify whether it is suitable for use during pregnancy.

e.g. ✅Pregnancy or ❌Pregnancy