Swollen feet during pregnancy: Why it happens and how to ease the discomfort

Swollen feet during pregnancy: Why it happens and how to ease the discomfort

Many physical changes occur during pregnancy as the body adjusts to support the growing baby. Among the most commonly reported concerns is swelling in the feet and ankles, especially in the later stages of pregnancy. Maryland-based anaesthesiologist and interventional pain medicine physician Dr Kunal Sood explained this phenomenon in an Instagram video. He pointed out that swelling in the feet during pregnancy usually occurs because of fluid buildup in the lower limbs as the body holds more blood and fluids to support pregnancy.

Explaining the process, Dr Sood said, “What you’re seeing here is fluid buildup in the feet, something that commonly happens as pregnancy progresses. During pregnancy, the body holds more blood and fluid. Hormones relax blood vessels, and the growing uterus slows down blood return from the legs, which allows fluid to pool, especially by the end of the day. While this type of swelling is often temporary and tends to worsen as the day progresses, it can still cause discomfort for many pregnant individuals.” To help manage this, Dr Sood shared several practical measures that may reduce swelling and improve comfort during daily activities.

Tips that may help ease swelling in the feet

Dr Sood outlined a few simple habits that may support circulation and help reduce discomfort:

🦵 Elevate your legs when resting

🧦 Wear compression socks, especially earlier in the day

🚶‍♀️ Gentle walking and ankle movement to improve circulation

💧 Stay well hydrated

🧂 Limit excess salt and highly processed foods

👟 Wear supportive, non-restrictive footwear

“Small daily habits can ease swelling even when it does not fully resolve,” he noted.

So, why does swelling in the feet and ankles become more common as pregnancy progresses?

Dr Gaana Sreenivas, obstetrician and gynaecologist at Bone and Birth Clinic and Rainbow Hospital, Bannerghatta Road, tells indianexpress.com, “Swelling in the feet and ankles, medically known as oedema, is very common during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters. As pregnancy progresses, the body produces more blood and bodily fluids to support the growing baby. In fact, blood volume increases significantly, which can lead to fluid accumulation in the tissues.”

Another important factor is the enlarging uterus. As it grows, Dr Sreenivas explains, it places pressure on the veins in the pelvis and on the inferior vena cava, the large vein that returns blood from the lower body to the heart. This pressure slows down blood circulation from the legs, causing fluid to pool in the lower extremities. “Hormonal changes also play a role, as pregnancy hormones cause blood vessels to relax, which can make fluid leakage into surrounding tissues more likely.”

When to seek medical evaluation

Mild to moderate swelling in the feet and ankles, Dr Sreenivas reveals, particularly later in pregnancy or after long periods of standing, is generally considered normal. It often becomes more noticeable toward the end of the day or in warmer weather.

However, she mentions that sudden or severe swelling, “especially if it occurs in the face, hands, or around the eyes, should not be ignored.” If swelling is accompanied by symptoms such as severe headache, blurred vision, upper abdominal pain, or high blood pressure, it could indicate preeclampsia, which requires prompt medical attention.

“Additionally, swelling that occurs in only one leg, particularly if it is associated with pain, redness, or warmth, may signal a blood clot and should be evaluated immediately. Pregnant women should always report any unusual or rapidly worsening swelling to their healthcare provider for proper assessment,” concludes Dr Sreenivas.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.