What does leg swelling look like in pregnant women? Edema during pregnancy, what to do? Visible swelling, depending on the degree, is divided

Edema is an excessive accumulation of fluid in the interstitial space of any part of the body. During pregnancy, the amount of fluid circulating in a woman’s body almost doubles, since it is contained in the amniotic fluid, the placenta, and is also needed by the growing baby and its circulatory system. At the same time, the water-salt metabolism changes (sodium accumulates in the vessels, which delays the excretion of fluid), and the growing uterus puts pressure on the vessels and organs, which slows down blood circulation and promotes fluid retention. In addition to all this, changes in hormonal levels during this period cause a feeling of thirst, which also leads to swelling.

Edema as a syndrome accompanies many diseases of different organs and systems of the body: endocrine, cardiovascular, renal and other inflammatory processes.

Edema (especially large ones) is not just a symptom that looks unsightly and causes discomfort. They can be quite dangerous. Due to severe swelling of the mother, the child may experience hypoxia (oxygen starvation), and the expectant mother herself may suffer from swelling of the internal organs and, as a result, disruption of their functioning. Swelling can also be one of the symptoms of preeclampsia, a condition that, if severe, may even raise the question of early birth. Therefore, the appearance (and even their possible appearance) is important to track at the earliest stage.

However, sometimes even severe swelling does not bother a pregnant woman, and her health remains satisfactory. Even in such a situation, it is better to consult a doctor, since in more than 90% of such cases the condition worsens (protein appears in the urine, pressure increases) and turns into gestosis.

As a rule, edema begins to bother the expectant mother from about the 30th week (and in case of gestosis - from the 20th week) of pregnancy.

Severe swelling can accompany pregnant women expecting twins or simply carrying a large fetus.

Hidden edema during pregnancy - what is it?

Puffiness always seems to be an obvious problem. However, this is not entirely true. In addition to obvious edema, there are so-called hidden edema (swelling of internal organs and tissues). Your obstetrician-gynecologist can help you detect them by conducting several examinations:

1. Regular weighing. Very often, hidden edema is indicated by excessive weight gain - more than 300 g per week.
2. Regular measurement of leg circumference. Complicated hidden edema is indicated by an increase in the circumference of the lower leg by 1 cm or more (measurements are taken once a week).
3. Study of daily diuresis indicators. Diuresis is the volume of urine produced over a specific period of time. It is used to compare the amount of liquid that was drunk with the volume of urine excreted. Normally, 3⁄4 of all the liquid you drink is excreted per day (this includes water, other drinks, fruits, and soups).

As a rule, the doctor can find out whether a woman is prone to edema already in the first weeks of pregnancy. He receives data on this from examining the patient, studying her constitution, heredity, medical history, as well as from a blood test for biochemistry. The sooner you know whether you may have swelling, the sooner you can take measures to prevent it.

Physiology and pathology of edema during pregnancy

Edema can be physiological and pathological. Physiological edema usually does not cause complications and only gives the pregnant woman a feeling of dissatisfaction with her appearance. Their origin is due to the fact that the growing uterus compresses the blood vessels - this prevents the normal outflow of blood. The uterus also puts pressure on the ureters, which causes fluid retention during pregnancy and, as a consequence, swelling. Edema of a physiological type can also be associated with the constitution of the pregnant woman herself - in women of short stature and with increased body weight, they occur more often.

Pathological edema, as a rule, accompanies gestosis (late toxicosis) - a complication of pregnancy that can occur in the third trimester. Its symptoms are high blood pressure, excretion of protein in the urine (normally it is absent), nausea, vomiting, headaches, convulsions (eclampsia), fever, drowsiness or, conversely, severe agitation, plus severe swelling. However, gestosis may not be accompanied by edema, and such “dry” gestosis is considered a more severe case. Also, gestosis is not necessarily accompanied by all of the above symptoms. The most dangerous thing is the presence of seizures. In any case, gestosis almost always requires the help of a doctor and the pregnant woman being in the hospital. The sooner you start treating it, the less likely it is that it will become severe.

Swelling of the legs during pregnancy

Swelling of the legs during pregnancy is the most common type of edema. They especially bother those who spend a lot of time on their feet, or simply after a long walk. Swelling is usually noticeable in the feet and legs. At the same time, your favorite shoes become too small or press hard. It is important to choose one that will not cause discomfort, from good stretch materials, so that it is comfortable to wear in the afternoon. You should also give up high heels, giving preference to low and stable ones. If you are concerned about leg swelling during pregnancy, try to avoid long walks, do not stand on your feet for long periods of time, at home take a lying position and raise your legs up, and also massage your feet regularly.

Swelling of the hands during pregnancy

Swelling of the hands during pregnancy, as a rule, appears in those women who work at the computer, do needlework and any other monotonous work - fluid stagnation occurs due to monotonous movements. In this case, you need to regularly do finger exercises. Also, starting from the second half of pregnancy, doctors advise not to wear rings on your hands. If you do not remove them in time, you can end up with such a degree of swelling that it will be very difficult or impossible to remove them.

Facial swelling during pregnancy

Facial swelling during pregnancy is easy to notice - the face becomes round and puffy. Particular discomfort is caused by swelling of the eyelids, and bags appear under the eyes. This is due to the specific anatomical features of the eyelids - in this area there is loose fiber that strongly absorbs liquid. You can reduce swelling on your face by following the general rules for preventing body swelling.

Swelling of the nose during pregnancy

The nose may swell as a result of general swelling of the face, as well as due to possible allergic reactions, which become greatly aggravated while expecting a child. It is advisable to prevent nasal congestion and swelling, because breathing problems make it difficult for the child to get oxygen. You can eliminate swelling with the help of drops, but do not forget that pregnant women are prohibited from using a number of common medications, so it is better if the medicine is prescribed to you by a doctor who knows exactly what medications are allowed.

Prevention and treatment of edema during pregnancy

Pregnant women with edema are given increased attention at the management stage in the antenatal clinic. The expectant mother is regularly weighed, her blood pressure is measured and her kidney function is monitored using urine tests. Everything is aimed at preventing complications. Advice given by doctors:

1. Adjust your nutrition. Eliminate fried and smoked foods (food prepared in these ways has a bad effect on blood vessels), boil meat and vegetables, steam, bake. Food must contain a sufficient amount of protein (to avoid its deficiency, which can occur with gestosis). It is also better not to eat fatty, spicy, pickled, sweet foods, and baked goods. But low-fat broths, cereals, fruits and vegetables should be eaten regularly. To prevent swelling, it is useful to carry out fasting days, but without getting carried away, no more than once a week and always after consultation with the doctor.
2. Limit salt intake (ideally to 1–1.5 g per day). It contains sodium, which helps it retain fluid in the body. It is important not only to under-salt (or not at all) food during cooking, but also to remove pickles, sauerkraut, herring, chips, crackers, sausages, and canned food from the diet.
3. Drink more. A sufficient amount of fluid will speed up water-salt metabolism in your body. If you drink little, you can lead the body to dehydration, which is no less dangerous. You should drink up to 1.5 liters of water per day (not counting soups and compotes), and drink most of the liquid before lunch, leaving less for the evening. It is better to drink not in large glasses, but in small sips, often, but little by little. However, you shouldn’t overuse the liquid either - this can lead to even more swelling. You can drink not only water, but also juices (preferably unsweetened and freshly squeezed), fruit drinks, tea with milk. At the same time, it is better not to get carried away with black tea and coffee, they can affect blood vessels and blood pressure. Green tea is also not as healthy as many people think: it contains a large amount of caffeine and can also affect the condition of blood vessels. You can drink no more than two cups per day. Forget about soda, especially sweet ones. In addition to fluid retention, it also causes heartburn. If you are going to start drinking so-called diuretic teas, be sure to consult your doctor - not all such drinks can be beneficial, and you need to take them very carefully.
4. Move and do gymnastics as much as you can. With active movements, the risk of swelling is reduced by half. Do special gymnastics for pregnant women, yoga, and visit the pool. The main thing is not to overdo it and exercise to the best of your ability. The load must be uniform and dosed.
5. Let's rest our feet. Try not to stand still or walk for too long. If you are sitting, place your feet on a special stand or stool. At the same time, it is strictly forbidden to sit with one leg crossed over the other. When sitting for a long time, do gymnastics with your feet about once an hour - twist them in different directions. Stand alternately on your heels and toes. Don't sit in one position for a long time. While lying down, place a cushion under your feet. Do cool foot baths and massages.
6. Try not to stay in the heat or stuffy rooms for a long time.
7. As recommended by your doctor, wear special compression garments. Swelling of the legs may be accompanied by varicose veins. This problem should be treated by a phlebologist, who will also prescribe you underwear with the required degree of compression. The main thing is to choose it by size, it should not put pressure.

Swelling is a symptom that accompanies almost every pregnancy. Minor swelling is almost inevitable, but there is nothing dangerous about it. So there is no need to worry. The main thing is to show responsibility in time and do not forget about the rules for their prevention, so as not to lead to a severe degree. Moreover, after childbirth, swelling disappears quite quickly, because the woman’s body leaves about 8 liters of excess fluid. And you will quickly forget about this problem.

Signs of edema: when to see a doctor

The easiest way to determine whether you have swelling or not is to press your finger on the skin. If there is no swelling, not a trace will remain on the skin; if there is, you will see a hole that will level out quite slowly, and the skin itself becomes pale and tense with swelling.

A slight swelling will not harm the pregnant woman, but there are signs that, if you notice them, it is better not to hesitate to consult a doctor:

• Sudden weight gain. If you gain more than 300 g in a week, this indicates severe swelling and a large amount of excess fluid in the body.
• The manifestation of edema in the morning. As a rule, swelling is temporary and intensifies in the evening, and in the morning there are no traces of it. If it bothers you already in the morning, it means it can become dangerous.
• Burning, tingling of the toes and hands, their numbness. This occurs due to compression of the nerves. With severe swelling, difficulties in bending the fingers may also appear, and it may become painful to step on the feet.
• The shoes become too tight and tight; the rings are difficult to remove from the toes or cannot be removed at all.
• Severe rounding of the face, swelling of the nose and lips.
• Rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, increased blood pressure.

Update: October 2018

Edema during pregnancy occurs to one degree or another in almost every woman. But not in all cases they indicate pathology and require drug treatment. Before you begin to treat edema, you should identify the cause of its occurrence, whether it is necessary to eliminate the edema, and whether the fight against it threatens to be something worse.

Water as an essential element of pregnancy

As you know, the human body consists of up to 80% water. During gestation, the amount of water increases by 6 - 8 liters, most of which (up to 6 liters) is in an extra-tissue state, and about 3 liters accumulates in the tissues. By the end of gestation, the volume of water increases by another 6 liters, 3 of which are due to the baby, placenta and amniotic fluid, and the rest to the increase in the woman’s circulating blood volume, the growing uterus and mammary glands. This “flood” is a normal state of physiological pregnancy.

The increase in the volume of the liquid part of the blood begins at 8 weeks, while the increase in the number of red blood cells begins at 18 weeks. This is explained by the need to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the fetus - the thinner and more fluid the blood, the faster it delivers.

Mechanism of edema formation

For water to flow to the fetus, it must be in the vascular bed, and not in the tissues or body cavities. The fluid in the blood vessels is held by 2 components:

1. sodium chloride
2. protein (albumin).

The protein albumin maintains oncotic pressure in the blood vessels, and sodium retains water in them. If there is a shortage of these substances, the fluid “leaves” into the tissue, that is, there is increased vascular permeability. Albumin is produced by a woman's liver from those amino acids that come with food, that is, it matters how the expectant mother eats.

Sodium chloride comes from food and is also stored by the kidneys. In addition, salt metabolism is regulated by hormones. Thus, there is a second point in the mechanism of edema - a violation of water-salt metabolism, when sodium accumulates in the tissues and attracts water from the vessels. Since the liquid part of the blood becomes small, it thickens, that is, against the background of visible or hidden edema, the mother’s body experiences dehydration ().

Classification of edema

Edema can be both physiological, that is, those that go away on their own when the provoking factors are eliminated, and pathological, caused by some medical problem. The line dividing edema into “normal” and pathological is quite fluid, and it is very difficult to draw it, and one should take into account not only the gestational age and concomitant pathology, but also the woman’s age, the number of fetuses gestated, her height and constitutional features.

Edema is also classified according to its prevalence:

• I degree – swelling of the legs (most often the feet and legs) and hands;
• II degree – swelling “rises” to the anterior wall of the abdomen and the lumbosacral region;
• III degree - not only the lower limbs and abdomen swell, but also the face;
• IV degree – generalized edema or anasarca.

Depending on the origin, edema is divided into:

• hydremic – caused by diseases of the urinary system;
• cardiac – arise as a result of cardiovascular pathology;
• cachectic or dystrophic due to exhaustion;
• inflammatory arise as a result of the formation of a focus of inflammation (traumatic, allergic, neurotic and toxic);
• congestive edema appears due to venous diseases (varicose veins, thrombosis and thrombophlebitis).

Causes of edema

Physiological edema may appear for the following reasons:

• hot and muggy weather;
• excessive physical stress on the legs (prolonged standing, walking) or on the arms (working at the computer, writing);
• flat feet;
• wearing tight shoes or high heels;
• prolonged sitting on soft and low seats;
• the habit of crossing your legs when sitting;
• errors in diet (excessive consumption of salty and spicy foods);
• overweight;
• large volume of the uterus (in late gestation or during multiple pregnancy) - the uterus compresses the inferior vena cava and disrupts blood flow in the lower body and legs;
• short stature;
• physical inactivity.

Pathological edema appears in the presence of a number of diseases and/or as a complication of pregnancy:

Varicose veins of the lower extremities

In this case, edema appears due to a violation of the outflow of blood through the veins, its stagnation in the veins, which provokes an increase in hydrostatic pressure in them. First, the pressure increases in large venous vessels, and then in small ones, and fluid is “squeezed out” from the vessels into the interstitial space with the formation of edema. This group also includes other venous diseases, which can be either a complication of varicose veins or an independent disease (thrombosis, phlebitis, thrombophlebitis). In this case, in addition to the described mechanism of edema development, there is also an inflammatory moment.

Cardiovascular pathology

Heart diseases (congenital heart defects, etc.) lead to the development of cardiovascular failure, one of the manifestations of which is edema. Fluid retention in the body is caused by an increase in central venous pressure, as the internal organs do not receive oxygen-enriched blood, as well as sodium retention by the kidneys. As central venous pressure increases, hydrostatic pressure in the capillaries increases, which “squeezes” water into the tissue. Pregnancy increases the load on the heart, which further causes edema.

Kidney pathology

Nephrotic syndrome, which is characterized by edema, is usually observed with glomerulonephritis. The mechanism of edema formation has several aspects. Firstly, protein is lost in the urine due to normal or frequent urination, which leads to a decrease in oncotic pressure in the blood vessels and an increase in their permeability, and, consequently, the occurrence of edema. Secondly, with reduced urination, sodium is retained in the tissues, which draws fluid from the blood vessels. Thirdly, the filtration function of the kidneys is disrupted (sodium retention) and water-salt metabolism is disrupted (the production of aldosterone increases, which also retains fluid in the body).

Allergic reactions

Quincke's edema - one of the severe manifestations of allergies is associated with generalized swelling of the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract and skin and develops due to the penetration of an allergen (antigen) into the body. The allergen promotes the production of inflammatory mediators: serotonin, histamine and others. In turn, inflammatory mediators increase the permeability of the vascular wall, and fluid from the blood rushes into the tissue, forming edema. Read more about.

Preeclampsia

Thyroid diseases

How to determine swelling

Edema, by definition, is the accumulation of an excess amount of fluid outside the vascular bed, and in the tissues and cavities of internal organs (cardiac sac, pleural sac, etc.). Edema is divided into hidden and visible. Hidden edema can only be suspected by a doctor based on the following signs:

Weight gain

A pregnant woman experiences pathological weight gain, which after 30 weeks is more than 300 grams in 7 days. Or the total increase in body weight over the entire gestation period is more than 20 kg. However, one should take into account the type of constitution and height of a woman and distinguish between pathological weight gain that occurs due to hidden edema or due to the accumulation of subcutaneous fat.

Daily diuresis

To determine it, the amount of liquid drunk (together with soups and watery fruits) and excreted is taken into account. Normally, their ratio is 4/3 (with about 300 ml of fluid released through sweat and breathing). If daily diuresis is negative, that is, the amount of fluid drunk significantly exceeds the volume excreted, this indicates hidden edema.

Nocturia

The woman notes that the volume of urine excreted at night is much greater than during the day. Moreover, the urge to urinate becomes more frequent at night. But it should be remembered that after 37 weeks, this symptom may also indicate impending labor (the head is pressed against the entrance to the pelvis and compresses the bladder).

McClure–Aldrich test

0.2 ml of physiological sodium chloride solution is injected intradermally into the forearm area and the time of resorption of the resulting blister is recorded. Normally, it should disappear after 35 minutes or more. If its resorption time is shortened, we can safely talk about hidden edema.

Visible swelling can be determined by the pregnant woman herself based on the following symptoms:

• Ring symptom - swelling of the fingers is indicated by a characteristic sign: the wedding ring does not come off the finger or is difficult to remove.
• Shoes - familiar and worn-in shoes suddenly become tight and tight, which indicates swelling of the feet.
• Socks - after the expectant mother takes off her socks, she notices that the marks, even pronounced indentations from their elastic bands on her legs do not disappear for a long time.
• Symptom of a “pit” - when pressing with a finger on the shin (in the place where only the skin covers the tibia), a characteristic depression remains, which does not go away for some time.
• Ankle volume- when measuring the circumference in the ankle area and increasing it by 1 cm or more per week, it speaks in favor of edema.
• Signs of generalized edema- with anasarca, not only the legs swell, they are also accompanied by swelling of the arms, labia, anterior abdominal wall and face (lips, eyelids and nose swell). A dangerous symptom is the inability to clench your hand into a fist or bend over and fasten your shoes. Such severe swelling during pregnancy may indicate developed gestosis.

Symptoms of various types of edema

Edema of different origins also differs in symptoms:

Cardiac edema

Swelling in the early stages begins from the legs, spreading to the thighs and above, symmetrically. In an upright position of the body, only the legs swell. In a horizontal position, the swelling is redistributed to the sacrum and lower back, and disappears after sleep (in the early stages). The swelling is quite dense, the “pits” do not disappear for a long time. The skin in the area of ​​edema is bluish and cold. Later, the swelling of the subcutaneous tissue is accompanied by the accumulation of fluid in the cavities (pleural, cardiac, abdominal). In addition, there is shortness of breath, fatigue and general pallor.

Renal edema

Edema of renal origin is characterized by its appearance from above, and it spreads downwards. Such swelling, on the contrary, appears in the morning and disappears by evening. They are loose and do not retain pressure marks for long. Appear on the face, where the subcutaneous tissue is looser - the eyelids swell. Edema is prone to migration - it moves easily when changing body position. The skin in areas of swelling is pale, warm and dry. Other symptoms also occur: headaches, high blood pressure, urine the color of “meat slop” (gross hematuria).

Edema in diseases of the veins of the lower extremities

With varicose veins of the lower extremities, edema develops gradually and is associated with prolonged stay in an upright position. Swelling appears in the evening, accompanied by a feeling of heaviness, hyperemia of the feet, swollen veins, and pain may appear. The skin over the swelling is warm, sometimes with a cyanotic tint. As a rule, such swelling is not symmetrical (appears only on one leg). In the case of thrombophlebitis, swelling is accompanied by inflammatory signs: hyperemia, heat, pain along the vein, as well as upon movement or touch.

Physiological edema

Usually their severity is insignificant; they appear more often on the shins or fingers (after prolonged work). They go away on their own, after sleep and excluding provoking factors.

Preeclampsia

Swelling during gestosis always begins in the feet and ankles (in some cases, the fingers “swell” at the same time). As the condition worsens, the swelling rises and spreads to the thighs, labia, and anterior abdominal wall. A doughy pillow appears above the pubis, which makes it difficult or impossible to bend forward (to tie shoelaces). Then swelling of the face occurs, its features become coarser, the eyes look like slits due to swollen eyelids. After sleep, visible swelling “disappears” and is redistributed throughout the body. Even significant swelling is accompanied by a satisfactory condition of the pregnant woman, but nevertheless requires treatment. Prognostically unfavorable signs are increased blood pressure (especially diastolic) and the appearance.

Measures to combat edema

What to do if edema occurs during pregnancy. First of all, put aside panic and calm down. You can deal with small, physiological swelling on your own, but in case of significant or permanent swelling, you should consult a doctor who will tell you how to get rid of the swelling:

Diet

In the diet, it is recommended to limit the consumption of table salt (but not eliminate it altogether). Drink at least 2 - 2.5 liters of fluid per day in small sips and constantly. As for drinks, preference is given to herbal teas with a soothing effect (mint, lemon balm), fruit drinks and still mineral water.

Walks

It is recommended to take regular walks of 1.5 - 2 hours at a leisurely pace in a forested park area, which will help disperse “stagnant” blood, raise general tone and prevent not only the appearance of excess fat deposits, but also swelling.

Herbs with diuretic effect

Decoctions and infusions of medicinal herbs with a weak diuretic effect are prescribed only by a doctor. Their use is especially indicated for diseases of the urinary system. Similar medicinal plants include: bearberry, lingonberry leaf, parsley. They have weak diuretic, anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties. Take with caution in case of edema caused by gestosis (in this case, diuretics are contraindicated).

Drugs that increase vascular tone

Local anticoagulant and vascular wall-strengthening agents () will help remove swelling (especially in diseases of the veins of the lower extremities). Such drugs are prescribed by a doctor. It is allowed to rub Lyoton-gel, Venitan, heparin ointment, Essaven gel into the skin of the feet. It is also recommended to take orally ascorutin, aescusan, and venoruton, which strengthen the vascular wall and reduce its permeability.

Wearing compression garments

Wearing special compression underwear (stockings or tights), which is especially recommended for pregnant women with varicose veins, will also help relieve swelling during pregnancy. It is necessary to put on stockings/tights while lying down in order to evenly distribute the pressure on the lower limbs.

• Avoid being in hot places
• Avoid prolonged standing or sitting.

In case of severe condition, in case of development of gestosis or worsening of chronic extragenital diseases (pathology of the kidneys, liver, heart), the pregnant woman is hospitalized.

Question answer

I swell (during pregnancy). What exactly can and cannot be eaten?

It is recommended to exclude strong tea (including green) and tea from drinking, which act as a stimulant and provoke the appearance of edema, as well as sweet carbonated drinks and juices (cause thirst). You should not give up salt consumption, but you should exclude, or at least limit, the consumption of highly salted, spicy and pickled foods (pickles, sauerkraut, nuts and chips, etc.). Adhere to the rules of a healthy diet, refuse to eat smoked foods, sweets and baked goods. It is advisable to steam, stew, bake or boil food, but under no circumstances fry it. The daily diet should contain a sufficient amount of protein, both animal and plant origin (lean meat, offal, cottage cheese, cereal porridge). Also consume fresh vegetables and fruits daily as sources of vitamins, and lactic acid products as a source of calcium. Fish and seafood, vegetable oils, which contain large amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids, are useful.

What are the dangers of edema during pregnancy?

Any swelling, unless, of course, it is physiological, poses a threat not only to the woman, but also to her unborn baby. A woman, as a rule, knows about extragenital pathology even before pregnancy, on the eve of which and during pregnancy she is prescribed appropriate treatment. A serious complication of pregnancy is edema caused by gestosis. If left untreated, a preconvulsive condition (preeclampsia) and a seizure disorder (eclampsia) may develop. Signs of preeclampsia include confusion or agitation, swelling of the nose during pregnancy, which is manifested by a stuffy or suddenly developed runny nose, flashing spots before the eyes, tinnitus, etc. Failure to provide timely assistance leads to convulsions, which can result in the death of the pregnant woman.

How can you relieve swelling at home?

Minor swelling of physiological origin will help eliminate the following measures:

• lying on the left side (reduces pressure from the uterus on large blood vessels, improves blood circulation in the kidneys);
• sleep or rest with your legs elevated (place a small pillow under them);
• cool foot baths, rubbing feet with ice cubes;
• gymnastics and foot massage;
• give up heels, preferring shoes with low heels and loose ones;
• in case of prolonged forced position (sitting at a desk), give your legs a rest (raise them on a chair, walk a few steps);
• Avoid wearing tight and constricting clothing (elastic bands, belts, tight collars and socks).

How do I know if I am at risk for developing edema and gestosis?

This group includes pregnant women with the following factors:

• young (under 17) and late (over 30) age of a woman;
• gestosis suffered during previous pregnancies (especially eclampsia and preeclampsia);
• pregnancy with more than one fetus;
• presence of arterial hypertension before pregnancy;
• bad habits (both before and during pregnancy);
• and other endocrine pathologies;
• severe early toxicosis;
• presence of industrial hazards;
• detected hidden edema.

During pregnancy, the volume of fluid circulating in the body almost doubles. So it would seem that there is nothing surprising in the fact that a woman expecting a child sometimes suffers from edema. But doctors consider them an alarming symptom, especially if they are accompanied by increased blood pressure and the appearance of protein in the urine.

So, if the wedding ring does not fit on your finger, and your shoes have become too small, immediately consult a doctor. And you must definitely follow the recommendations that he gives, because self-diagnosis and self-medication will not lead to any good. But prevention is available to every expectant mother.

Eliminate salt

Why? Table salt contains sodium. This element has the property of retaining water in the body. The more salt, the more fluid will remain in the tissues.

How in practice? Remove from the diet (or greatly reduce the dosage) pickles, herring, sauerkraut, black bread, sausage, not to mention such unhealthy, in every sense “garbage” products as crackers, chips, snacks, smoked meats and canned food. It is better to cook even familiar dishes without salt or under-salt.

Important: There is no need to be afraid that you and your baby will not get enough sodium: this element is found in many products in its natural form or in the form of salts.

Love healthy eating

Why? If there is a tendency to edema, the expectant mother should not only eliminate salt, but also observe some other restrictions. After all, problems with blood vessels, for example, also lead to the formation of edema. Therefore, you need to eat in such a way as not to give swelling the slightest chance.

Like in practice. Do not fry meat and vegetables, but boil or steam them. Eat fatty, spicy, sweet, and rich foods as little as possible, and be sure to regularly cook porridge, eat vegetables and fruits. Tea or coffee can affect the condition of blood vessels and, as a result, blood pressure - it is better not to abuse these drinks. And even “hyper-healthy” green tea - it has more caffeine than black tea, and you shouldn’t drink more than two cups a day. But freshly squeezed juices and still mineral water are welcome.

Important: The average daily calorie intake of food should not exceed 2800-3500 calories. That is, the expectant mother does not have to “eat for two.”

Maintain drinking regime

Why? Previously, it was restrictive: the expectant mother was prescribed to drink only 1-1.5 liters of liquid per day, including soups and compotes. But then studies showed that such a restriction is not useful: it worsens the condition of the venous wall, affects the quantity and quality of the mother’s blood, and its coagulability. After all, during pregnancy, blood volume increases, and if it is not maintained at the required level, the formation of blood clots and other problems cannot be avoided.

How in practice? The most common recommendation is that the expectant mother needs to drink 2.5 or even 3 liters of fluid daily. This amount includes any liquid, including that contained in liquid dishes, fresh juicy vegetables and fruits. Water should be at least 1.5 liters per day, and it should be drunk not all at once, but in small sips, a little at a time, but often. The water should be still.

Important: In case of gestosis, it is better to drink not water, which washes out many salts and microelements from the body, but tea with milk, sweet juices and fruit drinks, which “pull” water from the tissues and thereby reduce swelling.

Be careful with diuretics

Why? Medicines during pregnancy can harm not only the expectant mother, but also the baby. Therefore, the use of any medicinal and even natural herbal diuretics must be coordinated with your doctor.

How in practice? Usually, expectant mothers are prescribed homeopathic remedies, as well as herbal remedies with a mild diuretic effect - bearberry, lingonberry leaf, parsley decoction.

Important. Together with the fluid, potassium is washed out of our body, which, in particular, is important for the proper functioning of the heart muscle, for the health of the mother’s bones and teeth, and for the construction of the baby’s skeleton. Therefore, potassium needs to be replenished - with a diet or taking appropriate vitamin complexes (you should also ask your doctor about which one to choose).

Give your legs a rest

Why? 40% of women show some signs of varicose veins during pregnancy. One of its symptoms is swelling of the legs, which, fortunately, is the most harmless and does not require special treatment.

How in practice? While resting, raise your legs relative to your body position. For example, when sitting at a computer, place your feet on a stand. You can take an example from the Americans and put your feet on the table (or a chair standing nearby, if otherwise inappropriate). In a lying position, you need your legs to be elevated up to 30 cm high. This position will be ensured by placing a high pillow or a blanket bolster under the mattress. There are beds in which the height of the footboard and headboard can be varied.

Important.“Varicose” swelling is also reduced with the help of creams with horse chestnut or hazel extracts.

Lie on your left side

Why? 80% of women develop so-called physiological edema during pregnancy. They are considered normal because, unlike pathological edema, they disappear on their own after eliminating the causes (and they can be a diet violation or a quick walk on a hot day that causes increased sweating). The main “medicine” is to give yourself a rest, to lie down.

How in practice? When lying on the left side, the kidneys experience the least load, work best and move urine through the excretory system faster.

Important. If your face swells, it is difficult to clench your fingers into a fist due to excessive swelling, it is impossible to bend down due to swelling of the lower back and abdominal wall - see a doctor immediately. Such severe swelling is a sign of pregnancy, a very dangerous and insidious complication.

Move

Why? The risk of fluid accumulation in the legs is reduced if a woman moves a lot (but as much as possible!). An active mother's chances of developing edema are reduced by about half!

How in practice? Walking (only in the park, not on a polluted street) is an activity that is accessible and useful to almost all expectant mothers. You need to walk for at least 40 minutes a day, and even better - 2-3 hours. Special gymnastics for pregnant women, swimming with aqua aerobics, and yoga with belly dancing will help (it’s best to do all this under the supervision of specialists).

Important: If your work is predominantly sedentary, take “dynamic breaks” every hour - spin your feet in different directions for 5-10 minutes, stand on your toes and heels. But sitting cross-legged is not recommended at all!

Special underwear

Why? You need to acquire special support underwear no later than mid-pregnancy. The bandage will relieve the back, support the stomach, and ease the load on the veins of the lower extremities. Compression stockings and tights prevent the development of varicose veins, which means they relieve the feeling of heaviness and swelling in the legs. Lingerie designed specifically for expectant mothers protects blood vessels from excessive accumulation and stagnation of fluid in them.

How in practice? The bandage must be selected according to size, and it must be adjusted so that it does not squeeze, but rather supports. The degree of compression of the tights (weak or strong) will be determined by a phlebologist after studying the problem.

Get treatment if necessary

Why? Preeclampsia, kidney and heart problems are very serious abnormalities that require hospital treatment. Preeclampsia is fraught with preeclampsia and eclampsia - deadly conditions for mother and baby. The kidneys and heart may not be able to withstand the load and fail. In general, if a doctor, based on the results of observations and tests, is in a hurry to prescribe a referral to a hospital, do not resist: a specialist knows better.

How in practice? Cardiac edema never occurs on the hands and face, and is accompanied by some other symptoms (persistent palpitations, shortness of breath, bluish discoloration of the mucous membranes). Renal edema occurs with certain kidney diseases. Puffiness of the face, bags under the eyes appear, and later swelling of the legs and arms. Usually a woman knows that the kidneys are her weak point, and will be able to recognize specific swelling in order to contact a nephrologist or urologist.

Important: If such diseases arise or worsen during pregnancy, treatment is carried out only in a hospital setting - self-medication and hope for chance are unacceptable!

Extensive physiological edema almost always accompanies pregnancy with twins or a large fetus. But even such swelling after childbirth disappears very quickly: the fluid accumulated during pregnancy leaves the body (and that’s almost 8 extra liters!). And if the swelling remains in place a few days after the birth of the baby, then this is either excess weight, not swelling, or the cause of this swelling is not pregnancy at all.

The tendency to swelling during pregnancy worries many women. Increased anxiety during this “interesting period” of every woman’s life is useless, because nervous tension can lead to premature birth. Medicines for edema during pregnancy will help you forget about this uncomfortable condition for a long time. If there is increased swelling of the legs, hands or face, various medications may be required.

Causes of edema in pregnant women

Noticeable swelling is common to almost all pregnant women in the third trimester. Before you start fighting them, you need to find out the reason for their appearance. In some cases, you can get rid of fluid stagnation without the help of diuretics for edema during pregnancy:

1. Significantly greater need for water than before pregnancy. To form amniotic fluid, you need a lot of fluid, which increases blood volume. As a result, the body tries to reduce its viscosity: with the help of hormones, it provokes a feeling of thirst, and the pregnant woman begins to drink more fluid. The excess inevitably concentrates in the soft tissues. This is the most common cause of edema, which does not pose any danger to the health of either the mother or the fetus.
2. If before pregnancy a woman suffered from varicose veins, then with a high degree of confidence we can say that she will suffer from swelling of the legs in the third trimester. Medicines for edema during pregnancy, which are caused by varicose veins - "Troxevasin", "Troxerutin", "Lioton".
3. Often women do not even suspect that they have chronic kidney disease. This is pyelonephritis, sand and stones in this organ and bladder. During pregnancy, these diagnoses inevitably pop up, as the body experiences high stress. With such diseases, the kidneys simply cannot cope with the secretion of fluid. Drugs for edema during pregnancy that can be taken in this case are “Canephron”, “Renel”, “Fitolysin”.
4. Quite often, pregnant women experience gestosis - a disease in which, in addition to excessive fluid retention in the body, there is also an increase in pressure and a high concentration of protein in the urine. This is a complex condition, treatment for it requires comprehensive treatment and can only be prescribed by a therapist or gynecologist, based on the individual characteristics of the patient and the course of pregnancy.

in pregnant women

There are two main types:

• hidden edema (in some cases dangerous, they can be recognized by a sharp increase in body weight);
• obvious swelling is immediately noticeable: most often it appears on the hands, wrists, feet, ankles, and face.

Doctors distinguish three stages of edema during pregnancy:

• “normal” swelling is characterized by the absence of sudden changes in weight, normal levels of blood sugar and protein in the urine;
• the “middle” stage requires therapy, most often diuretics are used for this for edema during pregnancy;
• The “severe” stage most often appears as a result of gestosis - a pathology of pregnancy, which consists of the formation of substances in the placenta that literally “corrode” the vessels, making holes in them through which protein is washed out of the blood and enters the urine.

You will find out below which drugs are most effective during pregnancy and edema.

Medicines that can be used by pregnant women to combat swelling

Self-administration of medications during pregnancy is prohibited. Before using any medication, even the most harmless one, you should consult a doctor. Before prescribing medications for edema during pregnancy, the gynecologist will give a referral for a consultation with a phlebologist, endocrinologist and nephrologist to clarify the causes of the condition. Therapy will depend on the final diagnosis.

Before prescribing medications for edema during pregnancy, doctors will advise the patient to stabilize the water regime and adjust the diet. You should completely avoid salty foods and fast food, as well as carbonated drinks. If after these measures the swelling does not decrease, you will have to use an arsenal of drugs against edema during pregnancy. Treatment is most often easy and significantly improves the well-being of a pregnant woman.

"Fitolysin" for edema: instructions for use

Release form: paste or capsules. The drug is unique due to its natural composition:

• horsetail grass;
• goldenrod;
• onion;
• hernia;
• parsley fruit extract;
• birch leaves.

It is conditionally approved for use by pregnant women. This means that if the expected benefit from taking Phytolysin outweighs the predicted problems, then it can be used.

The composition of the drug, which is full of names of natural ingredients and extracts, can be misleading and seem completely safe. This opinion is wrong. Plant components often cause the development of serious allergic reactions, including Quincke's edema. So, if a pregnant woman is planning to use Fitolysin to treat edema, she must notify her doctor about this.

"Canephron" for pregnant women

Another remedy with a diuretic effect, widely used by herbalists. Given the mild antibacterial effect of Canephron, nephrologists have begun to prescribe it in recent years. The drug has a pronounced healing effect for the kidneys, despite the herbal composition. "Canephron" is the only drug for edema during pregnancy, reviews of which are almost all positive.

Release form: orange pellets. Active ingredients of "Canephron":

• lovage root;
• rosemary leaf extract;
• centaury herb.

Indications for use of the drug are cystitis, urolithiasis, chronic pyelonephritis, uric acid diathesis, swelling. "Canephron" is approved for use during pregnancy, but it is necessary to discuss the duration of use and dosage with a nephrologist.

"Hofitol" and "Holosas" for edema during pregnancy

If swelling is caused by gestosis or a violation of the outflow of bile, or liver disease, it is worth taking a course of choleretic drugs. Since swelling due to liver dysfunction is a fairly rare occurrence, these drugs are not often prescribed to pregnant women.

Both "Hofitol" and "Holosas" have a mild choleretic effect. The main active ingredient is processed crushed artichoke leaves. As a side effect, patients often experience urticaria, itching, and dermatitis.

"Hofitol" can effectively relieve the symptoms of toxicosis (this issue is relevant for many women during pregnancy): nausea, dizziness, vomiting. So, when taking this medicine, you can kill “two birds with one stone” at once: get rid of the manifestations of toxicosis and reduce swelling of the body.

After consultation with your doctor and in the absence of contraindications, you can use drugs for edema during pregnancy "Hofitol" or "Holosas" as a preventive measure.

Taking Eufillin for swelling during pregnancy

One of the causes of swelling in pregnant women is gestosis in pregnant women. This is a serious condition that develops due to vascular spasms due to changes in blood circulation and hormone balance.

With this process, "Eufillin" is the best drug for edema during pregnancy. The peculiarities of its action are that it dilates blood vessels and helps normalize blood circulation in the body. It also helps prevent blood cells from sticking together and forming blood clots, which is also common during pregnancy.

The release form of "Eufillin" is capsules for oral administration and ampoules with liquid for injection. For pregnant women, the tablet form is preferable, since the injection puts many people in a state of increased anxiety, which is unacceptable during such a crucial period.

Antispasmodics for swelling

The main purpose of antispasmodics is not to get rid of fluid accumulation in the tissues of the body. They relax muscle fibers, thereby reducing the tone of the uterus and preventing the development of pain. The most popular antispasmodics in gynecology are “No-shpa” and its cheap analogue called “Drotaverine”.

Antispasmodics help quite effectively with swelling of the legs, feet, and ankles. Swelling in the lower extremities is often associated with varicose veins. Antispasmodics reduce tension in the leg muscles, which helps accelerate blood circulation. So, this class of drugs has an indirect effect on reducing the severity of leg swelling.

Gels and ointments that reduce the severity of swelling

If swelling of the legs and feet during pregnancy is caused by varicose veins, then it is not necessary to take tablets. Ointments and gels will ease the condition, which accelerate blood circulation, prevent the formation of blood clots and resolve the accumulation of fluid under the skin:

• "Troxevasin" is sold in the form of ointment and gel, they contain different percentages of the active substance. The main component is trolamine, it prevents blood stagnation and disperses fluid in the subcutaneous fat.
• "Troxerutin" Contains the same active ingredient, but in a lower concentration. This is why the cost is lower than that of its analogue.

Dry crushed herbs and teas for swelling, which can be purchased at the pharmacy

What medications for edema for pregnant women contain only herbs and nothing more? Here is a list of medicinal teas and drinks that have a diuretic effect due to exclusively herbal ingredients:

• "Fitonephrol" has anti-inflammatory and diuretic effects;
• "Hibiscus" is not only a diuretic, it can normalize blood pressure;
• "Oolong" is a fermented tea that has pronounced diuretic properties.

Pregnant women should not be discouraged by the fact that such herbal teas have a completely natural composition. Plant components often cause the development of an individual allergic reaction.

Diet to prevent swelling during pregnancy

Before taking medications for edema during pregnancy (3rd trimester), you should always adjust your diet within one to two weeks. Often this is enough to get rid of fluid accumulation in the subcutaneous fat.

Here are these simple rules:

• Try to almost completely eliminate salt from your diet. Salt only liquid dishes and side dishes. Avoid chips, salted nuts, crackers, salted fish and snacks completely.
• Normalize your drinking regime: drink at least one and a half liters of clean water, but no more than two.
• Try to limit your intake of coffee and black flavored tea.
• Avoid carbonated drinks completely.
• Minimize the intake of mayonnaise and other spicy, fatty, sugary sauces.
• Try to eat fatty meats (pork, beef tenderloins) as little as possible.