Did your shoe size change during pregnancy? Do you suffer from pain and swelling of the feet during pregnancy? Is swollen feet during pregnancy common for all of these changes to happen? And the most important question is how to overcome this problem?

To begin, we must acknowledge that pregnancy is a challenging experience in which many physiological changes occur, and women confront several health issues that must be addressed to protect their health and the health of the fetus.  One of the most common problems is swollen feet during pregnancy.

Swollen feet during pregnancy!

We must first understand the reasons behind this problem before we can assess whether or not it is preventable.

Is it normal?

Yes, it is normal for a pregnant woman to have some swelling during pregnancy, especially in the legs, ankles, feet, and toes.

Swelling occurs because there is more water than usual in the body. Excess water tends to collect throughout the day in the lower extremities, especially if the weather is hot or you have been standing for long periods. The pressure of the growing uterus can also affect blood flow in the legs, causing fluid to build up in your legs, ankles, and feet. It is often worse at the end of the day and in the last months of pregnancy.

Pre-eclampsia

It is true that swelling that occurs gradually is not usually harmful, but it can be annoying. In contrast to the sudden swelling that may be a sign of preeclampsia! At that time, you should monitor the situation and consult a doctor as soon as possible.

Tips to reduce swollen feet during pregnancy

Try these simple steps to help reduce swelling:

• Avoid standing for long periods.
• Raise your feet as much as possible when sitting and avoid crossing your feet.
• Stretch a lot after sitting for long periods.
• Lie on your left side when sleeping.
• Drink plenty of water. This advice may sound strange, but if your body feels dehydrated, it will try to retain more fluids.
• Wear comfortable shoes and socks and avoid tight clothing or anything that may put pressure on your feet.
• Exercise regularly. Try to walk regularly during the day or do simple foot exercises such as:
• Bend the feet and extend them up and down 30 times.
• Rotate each foot in a circle 8 times in one direction and 8 times in the other.