There are many exciting things to consider whilst you are pregnant.There are too, unfortunately, many aspects of pregnancy which we hope we do not acquire, and if we do we try to forget about as soon as possible. Swollen ankles and feet are not the image that most of us have when we first discover we are pregnant.We think of ourselves looking good and feeling optimistic.
When To Be Concerned About Swollen Ankles And Feet
There is a condition, during pregnancy, called pre-eclampsia.This happens during the last trimester and symptoms are monitored and looked for at every checkup during the danger period.Among the obvious symptoms is swollen ankles and feet, still, it is quite possible to have swollen ankles and feet without developing pre-eclampsia.If you have got any concerns you should immediately book an appointment with your doctor or midwife, but do not panic.
Caring For Swollen Ankles And Feet
During pregnancy, the circulation system of the mother is incorporated with her unborn baby.This puts huge pressure upon the whole of a woman’s body.This increases circulation and the added weight being carried can cause feet to become uncomfortable and to swell.It is a good idea to go shoe shopping during the first trimester of pregnancy and to look for some wide, snug flat shoes.Try to find shoes which are a bit fun as you may be wearing them throughout the pregnancy and as you find other items of clothing getting too small, or uncomfortable it’s nice to be able to put on comfortable shoes which will make you feel better.Remember that if you opt for shoes with a strap that the strap needs to be adjustable and should not be too near the ankle as this may get uncomfortable during the later stages of pregnancy.
What To Do With Swollen Up Ankles And Feet
There is one great bit of advice – rest.If you feel your feet they may feel hot. This is where the pain pads come into their own.It would be nice to think that you may have a foot massage every time you sat and put your feet up, but that is unfortunately not always achievable.Equally rubbing your own feet during pregnancy gets really troublesome as your bump gets bigger.Heat and water massagers are not great for hot feet – they just seem to make you feel additional discomfit. So the solution is these little pain pads which you pop in the fridge.They are great, you may either put your feet on top of them or cool your soles or you will be able to place them under, or on top, of your ankles.This produces a lovely cooling effect which will quickly become a nightly ritual.Whenever you are in a hot climate, or planning to visit hot climes during pregnancy, then these are essential packing because they will help to keep you comfortable.They can also be used to relieve the itchiness of mosquito bites, which is useful as antihistamines are not recommended for pregnant or breast feeding
women any more.