Wearing Compression Stockings During Pregnancy

Women who are pregnant experience an increased amount of circulation in the body. This is due to the extra nutrients that are needed. One of the ways that nutrients are stored and delivered to the baby is through the collection of fluids in the tissue throughout the body. The natural accumulation of these fluids can cause swelling, especially in the legs and feet. This results in a number of different issues that make certain periods of pregnancy very uncomfortable. A common way to treat these issues is with compression stockings. These support hose gently compress the legs and ankles to improve blood flow. Several issues can be treated during pregnancy with compression stockings.

Swelling

The fluid that collects in the legs and ankles causes swelling that has the potential to become very uncomfortable. The swelling becomes more intense as the pregnancy progresses. Compression stockings cover the feet, ankles and legs. The pressure is graduated so that the garment is tighter near the feet and slightly looser at the top. This works to relieve the swelling by drawing the excess fluid out of the tissue and driving it into the bloodstream, where it will be removed from the body naturally. This will reduce the swelling when the support hose are fitted correctly.

Varicose Veins

The weight of the growing baby during pregnancy causes some women to develop varicose veins in the legs. This occurs because the pressure of the baby and the accumulated fluids in the body constrict the pathways. The veins are already pushing blood towards the heart against gravity. The extra pressure forces the blood downwards where it pools, causing the veins to swell. Compression stockings apply pressure to the veins in the reverse direction. This allows the blood to be captured by the valves in the veins so that it can work upwards and reach the heart. Support hose will also help to reduce any pain that is felt because of the varicose veins.

Aches And Pains

Many changes take place in the body during pregnancy. Even without obvious swelling or varicose veins, it is still possible to feel aches and pains in the feet, ankles and legs. This discomfort is sometimes amplified when movement is restricted during the day. Wearing compression stockings will help to provide support to the legs while sitting or walking. This added pressure relieves stress on the muscles and makes it easier to walk or stand. The support hose will also work to keep blood moving while sitting for long periods of time so that fluids do not have a chance to collect in the legs.